Discovering unrecognized lead-smelting sites by historical methods.

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Bibliographic Details
Title: Discovering unrecognized lead-smelting sites by historical methods.
Authors: Eckel WP (AUTHOR), Rabinowitz MB (AUTHOR), Foster GD (AUTHOR)
Source: American Journal of Public Health. Apr2001, Vol. 91 Issue 4, p625-627. 3p.
Subjects: Hazardous substances, Industrial safety, Smelting & health, Lead smelting, Soils
Abstract: OBJECTIVES: Our objective was to enumerate unrecognized former lead smelters in the United States. METHODS: Defunct smelters were identified by historical research. The compiled list was compared with government registries of hazardous sites. Soil samples were taken from 10 sites. RESULTS: Approximately 430 sites were unknown to the federal authorities. Only 5 of 319 sites were known to authorities in the top 8 states. Nine of the 10 sites sampled exceeded residential standards for soil lead level. CONCLUSIONS: Approximately 430 former lead-smelting sites were unrecognized in the United States. Sampling results indicate that the sites may pose a threat to public health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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Database: Psychology and Behavioral Sciences Collection
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Abstract:OBJECTIVES: Our objective was to enumerate unrecognized former lead smelters in the United States. METHODS: Defunct smelters were identified by historical research. The compiled list was compared with government registries of hazardous sites. Soil samples were taken from 10 sites. RESULTS: Approximately 430 sites were unknown to the federal authorities. Only 5 of 319 sites were known to authorities in the top 8 states. Nine of the 10 sites sampled exceeded residential standards for soil lead level. CONCLUSIONS: Approximately 430 former lead-smelting sites were unrecognized in the United States. Sampling results indicate that the sites may pose a threat to public health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
ISSN:00900036
DOI:10.2105/ajph.91.4.625