Case series of chronic occupational lead exposure in shooting ranges

Introduction: Despite existing occupational lead exposure prevention regulations, Lithuanian shooting range workers still complain of chronic lead poisoning related symptoms. This indicates a poor understanding of occupational safety when working in lead-polluted environments. Case presentation: 20 men, whose age ranged from 32 to 57 (mean 41.8 +/- 10 years), were consulted at the Toxicology Centre at the Republican Vilnius university hospital in Vilnius, Lithuania in the 2016-2019 year period. All of the patients were working as shooting instructors, with their work experience varying from 2 to 30 years. Clinical examination showed blood lead levels ranging from 5.64 mu g/dL to 45.8 mu g/dL (norm for occupational exposure - <40 mu g/dL). Main symptoms were fatigue (12 patients out of 20), dizziness (5/20), arthralgia (5/20). Other symptoms included impaired memory (3/20), nausea (3/20), sleep disorders (3/20), metallic or sweet taste (3/20), dermatological disorders (3/20), coxarthrosis (2/20), balance disorders (2/20), paresthesia (2/20), abdominal pain (2/20) and others. 4 patients were asymptomatic. Discussion: Shooting range employees are highly vulnerable to daily lead exposure. Even low constant elevated blood lead concentrations can have significant toxic effects over time.

Automated summary

Despite regulations, Lithuanian shooting range workers still show poor understanding of occupational lead exposure prevention, leading to chronic lead poisoning symptoms. Elevated blood lead levels in these workers result in symptoms like fatigue, dizziness, and joint pain.