Total blood lead levels in petrol vendors.

The total blood lead levels of a group of 48 petrol vendors and a comparison group of 47 clerks and students were determined. The mean total blood lead level of the petrol vendors was 32-9 mug/100 ml (S.E.1-73 mug/100 ml). The mean level of the comparison group was 14-3 mug/100 ml (S.E. 0-72 mug/100 ml). The concentrations of lead in the blood of petrol vendors were significantly higher than those of the comparison group, and seven individual values fell above the currently accepted "level of concern". Recent relevant literature is reviewed.