Lead in Frits: The Hazards
Lead has been used in ceramics for thousands of years because it works so well, that is, leaded glazes melt at low temperatures, have low thermal expansion, dazzling colors and tolerance to variable firing. Frits are a modern development that have dramatically improved the safety with which the material can be handled.
Generally most leaded frits are fairly insoluble and safe to use as raw materials. However the glazes they produce will be as leachable for a given lead percentage as if the lead came from raw lead carbonate or lead oxide. There is a huge range of lead content in frits, some may have 1%, others 80%. To create a safe leaded glaze you need equipment to measure leaching of lead and expertise in ceramic chemistry to find the oxide profiles that release the least amount of lead.
OSHA Standard 29CFR1910.94 specifies .05 mg/cu meter maximum and .03 mg/cu meter set as trigger and action levels.
Leads and its inorganic compounds are neurotoxins which may produce peripheral neuropathy. For an overview of the effect of lead exposure, consult Occupational Safety and Health Adm. App. A of Occupational Exposure to Lead (29CFR1910,1025 "A Guide for Physicians, Health and Maintenance of Workers Exposed to Inorganic Lead" is available from Lead Industries Association, Inc., 292 Madison Ave, New York, NY 10017)
There are two major means of lead absorption, namely inhalation and ingestion. Most inhalation problems can be prevented with attention to ventilation and respirator use. Ingestion can be prevented with good hygiene practices.
Do not inhale or swallow dust. Wash thoroughly after handling. Use gloves and avoid spilling on hands, face, or body to prevent secondary contamination by ingestion or inhalation. Do not smoke, eat or apply cosmetics in work area. Wash thoroughly before entering into eating areas. Do not wear any part of work clothing home. This includes shoes.
Keep lead materials away from animal feed and food products. Keep away from children. Do no reuse containers. This product is intended for industrial use only. Out Bound Links
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