[Work capacity evaluation in inorganic lead exposure]

When estimating the work ability of workers exposed to inorganic lead four zones should be differentiated: a zone of normal exposure (I), a zone of abnormal but acceptable exposure (II), a zone of abnormal but still acceptable exposure (III) and a zone of abnormal and unacceptable exposure (IV). In the zone of normal exposure specific work ability is preserved. In zones of abnormal but acceptable exposure specific work ability can, also, be preserved. However, in the zone of abnormal, unacceptable exposure specific work ability, temporarily or permanently, is lost. Combinations of three relevant laboratory tests are presented, which, while warning of the presence, i.e. the effect, of inorganic lead in the organism, directly dictate the estimation of specific work ability (blood lead, ALAD, EP, ZPP). Attention has been drawn to other contraindications, set by positive legislation, which also directly dictate the estimation of workers exposed to inorganic lead. It is emphasized that permanent disruption of relevant laboratory parameters (blood lead, ALAD, EP, ZPP) is a sufficient basis for recognizing occupational lead poisoning, within positive legislation.