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Lead (Pb)

Contact:  Air Quality Division 517-373-7023



The most common sources of lead emissions are gasoline additives, non-ferrous smelting plants, and battery manufacturing. Historically, lead was added to gasoline as an additive to prevent engine knocking. The lead content of gasoline began to be controlled in the 1970s when legislation was introduced to gradually reduce lead levels. Currently, smelters and battery plants are the major sources of lead nationwide. Human exposure to lead can occur through ingestion or inhalation. The nervous system is most sensitive to the effects of lead and high exposures to lead can result in behavioral and learning disorders. Lead also may be a factor in high blood pressure and heart disease.

Concentrations of lead in the air decreased steadily in the 1980s after the removal of lead from gasoline. Average quarterly lead levels across Michigan are about 50 times below the air quality standard of 1.5 micrograms per cubic meter (µg/m3). The air quality standard for lead has been met since 1985 in all metropolitan areas in Michigan.

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