Lead monoxide

This chemical does not meet GHS hazard criteria for 1.1% (9 of 841) of reports.

H302+H332 (20.3%): Harmful if swallowed or if inhaled [Warning Acute toxicity, oral; acute toxicity, inhalation]

H302 (98.9%): Harmful if swallowed [Warning Acute toxicity, oral]

H332 (98.9%): Harmful if inhaled [Warning Acute toxicity, inhalation]

H351 (56.5%): Suspected of causing cancer [Warning Carcinogenicity]

H360 (83.5%): May damage fertility or the unborn child [Danger Reproductive toxicity]

H360Df (15.8%): May damage the unborn child; Suspected of damaging fertility [Danger Reproductive toxicity]

H362 (34.6%): May cause harm to breast-fed children [Reproductive toxicity, effects on or via lactation]

H372 (48.8%): Causes damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure [Danger Specific target organ toxicity, repeated exposure]

H373 (50.1%): May causes damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure [Warning Specific target organ toxicity, repeated exposure]

H400 (74.7%): Very toxic to aquatic life [Warning Hazardous to the aquatic environment, acute hazard]

H410 (98.9%): Very toxic to aquatic life with long lasting effects [Warning Hazardous to the aquatic environment, long-term hazard]

P203, P260, P261, P263, P264, P270, P271, P273, P280, P301+P317, P304+P340, P317, P318, P319, P330, P391, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

Aggregated GHS information provided per 841 reports by companies from 38 notifications to the ECHA C&L Inventory. Each notification may be associated with multiple companies.

Reported as not meeting GHS hazard criteria per 9 of 841 reports by companies.

There are 36 notifications provided by 832 of 841 reports by companies with hazard statement code(s).

Information may vary between notifications depending on impurities, additives, and other factors. The percentage value in parenthesis indicates the notified classification ratio from companies that provide hazard codes. Only hazard codes with percentage values above 10% are shown. For more detailed information, please visit ECHA C&L website.

H341: Suspected of causing genetic defects [Warning Germ cell mutagenicity]

H351: Suspected of causing cancer [Warning Carcinogenicity]

H360: May damage fertility or the unborn child [Danger Reproductive toxicity]

H370: Causes damage to organs [Danger Specific target organ toxicity, single exposure]

H372: Causes damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure [Danger Specific target organ toxicity, repeated exposure]

P203, P260, P264, P270, P280, P308+P316, P318, P319, P321, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

H316: Causes mild skin irritation [Warning Skin corrosion/irritation]

H373: May causes damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure [Warning Specific target organ toxicity, repeated exposure]

P203, P260, P280, P318, P319, P332+P317, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

H360Df: May damage the unborn child; Suspected of damaging fertility [Danger Reproductive toxicity]

P203, P260, P280, P318, P319, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

H302: Harmful if swallowed [Warning Acute toxicity, oral]

H332: Harmful if inhaled [Warning Acute toxicity, inhalation]

H362: May cause harm to breast-fed children [Reproductive toxicity, effects on or via lactation]

H400: Very toxic to aquatic life [Warning Hazardous to the aquatic environment, acute hazard]

H410: Very toxic to aquatic life with long lasting effects [Warning Hazardous to the aquatic environment, long-term hazard]

Fresh air, rest.

Remove contaminated clothes. Rinse and then wash skin with water and soap.

First rinse with plenty of water for several minutes (remove contact lenses if easily possible), then refer for medical attention.

Rinse mouth. Give one or two glasses of water to drink. Refer for medical attention .

Consult physician after ingestion or exposure to high concentrations of dust.

INGESTION: call physician at once; as first aid, induce vomiting and give milk and magnesium sulfate (Epsom salt). (USCG, 1999)

Excerpt from ERG Guide 151 [Substances - Toxic (Non-Combustible)]:

SMALL FIRE: Dry chemical, CO2 or water spray.

LARGE FIRE: Water spray, fog or regular foam. If it can be done safely, move undamaged containers away from the area around the fire. Dike runoff from fire control for later disposal. Avoid aiming straight or solid streams directly onto the product.

FIRE INVOLVING TANKS, RAIL TANK CARS OR HIGHWAY TANKS: Fight fire from maximum distance or use unmanned master stream devices or monitor nozzles. Do not get water inside containers. Cool containers with flooding quantities of water until well after fire is out. Withdraw immediately in case of rising sound from venting safety devices or discoloration of tank. ALWAYS stay away from tanks in direct contact with flames. For massive fire, use unmanned master stream devices or monitor nozzles; if this is impossible, withdraw from area and let fire burn. (ERG, 2024)

In case of fire in the surroundings, use appropriate extinguishing media.

Suitable extinguishing media: Use water spray, alcohol-resistant foam, dry chemical or carbon dioxide.

Advice for firefighters: Wear self-contained breathing apparatus for firefighting if necessary.

Extinguishant: Dry sand, dry dolomite, or dry graphite. /Inorganic lead/

If material on fire or involved in fire: Extinguish fire using agent suitable for type of surrounding fire. (Material itself does not burn or burns with difficulty.) Use water in flooding quantities as fog. Use "alcohol" foam, dry chemical or carbon dioxide. /Lead compounds, NOS/

Lead is combustible in powder form when exposed to heat or flame. /Inorganic lead/

Excerpt from ERG Guide 151 [Substances - Toxic (Non-Combustible)]:

IMMEDIATE PRECAUTIONARY MEASURE: Isolate spill or leak area in all directions for at least 50 meters (150 feet) for liquids and at least 25 meters (75 feet) for solids.

SPILL: Increase the immediate precautionary measure distance, in the downwind direction, as necessary.

FIRE: If tank, rail tank car or highway tank is involved in a fire, ISOLATE for 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all directions; also, consider initial evacuation for 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all directions. (ERG, 2024)

Personal protection: particulate filter respirator adapted to the airborne concentration of the substance. Do NOT let this chemical enter the environment. Sweep spilled substance into covered containers. If appropriate, moisten first to prevent dusting. Carefully collect remainder. Then store and dispose of according to local regulations.

ACCIDENTAL RELEASE MEASURES: Personal precautions, protective equipment and emergency procedures: Use personal protective equipment. Avoid dust formation. Avoid breathing vapors, mist or gas. Ensure adequate ventilation. Evacuate personnel to safe areas. Avoid breathing dust. Environmental precautions: Prevent further leakage or spillage if safe to do so. Do not let product enter drains. Discharge into the environment must be avoided. Methods and materials for containment and cleaning up: Pick up and arrange disposal without creating dust. Sweep up and shovel. Keep in suitable, closed containers for disposal.

SRP: Wastewater from contaminant suppression, cleaning of protective clothing/equipment, or contaminated sites should be contained and evaluated for subject chemical or decomposition product concentrations. Concentrations shall be lower than applicable environmental discharge or disposal criteria. Alternatively, pretreatment and/or discharge to a permitted wastewater treatment facility is acceptable only after review by the governing authority and assurance that "pass through" violations will not occur. Due consideration shall be given to remediation worker exposure (inhalation, dermal and ingestion) as well as fate during treatment, transfer and disposal. If it is not practicable to manage the chemical in this fashion, it must be evaluated in accordance with EPA 40 CFR Part 261, specifically Subpart B, in order to determine the appropriate local, state and federal requirements for disposal.

The following wastewater treatment technologies have been investigated for lead: Concentration process: Biological treatment. /Lead/

The following wastewater treatment technologies have been investigated for lead: Concentration process: Chemical precipitation. /Lead/

For more Cleanup Methods (Complete) data for Lead(II) Oxide (17 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

Generators of waste (equal to or greater than 100 kg/mo) containing this contaminant, EPA hazardous waste number D008, must conform with USEPA regulations in storage, transportation, treatment and disposal of waste.

Product: Offer surplus and non-recyclable solutions to a licensed disposal company. Contact a licensed professional waste disposal service to dispose of this material. Dissolve or mix the material with a combustible solvent and burn in a chemical incinerator equipped with an afterburner and scrubber; Contaminated packaging: Dispose of as unused product.

Sweep spilled substance into covered containers. If appropriate, moisten first to prevent dusting. Carefully collect remainder. Then store and dispose of according to local regulations.

Chemical Treatability of Lead; Concentration Process: Biological Treatment; Chemical Classification: Metal; Scale of Study: Respirometer Study; Results of Study: Oxygen uptake inhibited. /Inorganic lead cmpd/

Chemical Treatability of Lead; Concentration Process: Biological Treatment; Chemical Classification: Metal; Scale of Study: Laboratory Scale; Type of Wastewater Used: Synthetic Wastewater; Results of Study: No stimulation or inhibition of biological growth (study of Nitrosomonas bacteria). /Inorganic lead cmpd/

ACCIDENTAL RELEASE MEASURES: Personal precautions, protective equipment and emergency procedures: Use personal protective equipment. Avoid dust formation. Avoid breathing vapors, mist or gas. Ensure adequate ventilation. Evacuate personnel to safe areas. Avoid breathing dust. Environmental precautions: Prevent further leakage or spillage if safe to do so. Do not let product enter drains. Discharge into the environment must be avoided.

Precautions for safe handling: Avoid contact with skin and eyes. Avoid formation of dust and aerosols. Further processing of solid materials may result in the formation of combustible dusts. The potential for combustible dust formation should be taken into consideration before additional processing occurs. Provide appropriate exhaust ventilation at places where dust is formed.

Appropriate engineering controls: Handle in accordance with good industrial hygiene and safety practice. Wash hands before breaks and at the end of workday.

Gloves must be inspected prior to use. Use proper glove removal technique (without touching glove's outer surface) to avoid skin contact with this product. Dispose of contaminated gloves after use in accordance with applicable laws and good laboratory practices. Wash and dry hands.

For more Preventive Measures (Complete) data for Lead(II) Oxide (25 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

Excerpt from ERG Guide 151 [Substances - Toxic (Non-Combustible)]:

Do not touch damaged containers or spilled material unless wearing appropriate protective clothing. Stop leak if you can do it without risk. Prevent entry into waterways, sewers, basements or confined areas. Cover with plastic sheet to prevent spreading. Absorb or cover with dry earth, sand or other non-combustible material and transfer to containers. DO NOT GET WATER INSIDE CONTAINERS. For solids, prevent dust cloud and avoid inhalation of dust. (ERG, 2024)

Separated from food and feedstuffs and incompatible materials. See Chemical Dangers.

Keep container tightly closed in a dry and well-ventilated place. Keep in a dry place. Storage class (TRGS 510): Non-combustible, acute toxic Cat.3 / toxic hazardous materials or hazardous materials causing chronic effects.

Separated from food and feedstuffs and incompatible materials.

Biological Exposure Indices (BEI) [ACGIH] - Lead in blood = 200 ug/L (20 ug/100 ml); sampling time not critical; [ACGIH]

0.05 [mg/m3], as Pb

8 hr Time Weighted Avg (TWA): 0.05 mg/cu m. /Lead and inorganic compounds, as Pb/

Peak Exposure Recommendation: Transient increases in workers' exposure levels may exceed 3 times the value of the TLV-TWA level for no more than 15 minutes at a time, on no more than 4 occasions spaced 1 hour apart during a workday, and under no circumstances should they exceed 5 times the value of the TLV-TWA level. In addition, the 8-hour TWA is not to be exceeded for an 8-hour work period. /Lead and inorganic compounds, as Pb/

A3; Confirmed animal carcinogen with unknown relevance to humans. /Lead and inorganic compounds, as Pb/

Biological Exposure Index (BEI): Determinant: lead in blood; Sampling Time: not critical; BEI: 30 ug/100 mL. [Note: Women of child bearing potential, whose blood Pb exceeds 10 ug/dL, are at risk of delivering a child with a blood Pb over the current Centers for Disease Control guideline of 10 ug/dL. If the blood Pb of such children remains elevated, they may be at increased risk of cognitive deficits. The blood Pb of these children should be closely monitored and appropriate steps should be taken to minimize the child's exposure to environmental lead.] /Lead/

2016 Notice of Intended Changes (NIC): These substances, with their corresponding indices, comprise those for which (1) a BEI is proposed for the first time, (2) a change in the Adopted index is proposed, (3) retention as an NIC is proposed, or (4) withdrawal of the Documentation and adopted BEI is proposed. In each case, the proposals should be considered trial indices during the period they are on the NIC. These proposals were ratified by the ACGIH Board of Directors and will remain on the NIC for approximately one year following this ratification. If the Committee neither finds nor receives any substantive data that change its scientific opinion regarding an NIC BEI, the Committee may then approve its recommendation to the ACGIH Board of Directors for adoption. If the Committee finds or receives substantive data that change its scientific opinion regarding an NIC BEI, the Committee may change its recommendation to the ACGIH Board of Directors for the matter to be either retained on or withdrawn from the NIC. Chemical: Lead; Determinant: Lead in blood; Sampling Time: Not critical; BEI: 200 ug/L; Notation: None . NOTE: Women of child bearing potential, whose blood Pb exceeds 50 ug/L, are at risk of delivering a child with a blood Pb over the current u.s. Centers for Disease Control guideline of 50 ug/L. (CDC: Guidelines for the identification and management of lead exposure in pregnant and lactating women, November 2010). If the blood Pb of such children remains elevated, they may be at increased risk of cognitive deficits and other health effects. /Lead/

0.05 mg/m

(binding): 0.15 mg/m

carcinogen category: 2; germ cell mutagen group: 3A.

A harmful concentration of airborne particles can be reached quickly when dispersed, especially if powdered.

The substance may have effects on the blood, bone marrow, central nervous system, peripheral nervous system and kidneys. This may result in anaemia, encephalopathy (for example, convulsions), peripheral nerve disease, abdominal cramps and kidney impairment. Causes toxicity to human reproduction or development.

Dust or metal fume respirator; gloves; goggles. (USCG, 1999)

Eye/face protection: Face shield and safety glasses. Use equipment for eye protection tested and approved under appropriate government standards such as NIOSH (US) or EN 166(EU).

Skin protection: Handle with gloves.

Body Protection: Complete suit protecting against chemicals. The type of protective equipment must be selected according to the concentration and amount of the dangerous substance at the specific workplace.

Respiratory protection: Where risk assessment shows air-purifying respirators are appropriate use a full-face particle respirator type N100 (US) or type P3 (EN 143) respirator cartridges as a backup to engineering controls. If the respirator is the sole means of protection, use a full-face supplied air respirator. Use respirators and components tested and approved under appropriate government standards such as NIOSH (US) or CEN (EU).

For more Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) (Complete) data for Lead(II) Oxide (15 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

See EFFECTS OF LONG-TERM OR REPEATED EXPOSURE. AVOID EXPOSURE OF (PREGNANT) WOMEN! PREVENT DISPERSION OF DUST! AVOID ALL CONTACT!

Use local exhaust or breathing protection.

Protective gloves.

Wear safety spectacles.

Do not eat, drink, or smoke during work. Wash hands before eating.

Litharge appears as odorless gray or yellow green or red-brown solid. Sinks in water. (USCG, 1999)

Dry Powder; Other Solid

Red to yellow crystals; [ICSC] Practically insoluble in water (17 mg/L at 20 deg C); [ATSDR ToxProfiles]

RED-TO-YELLOW CRYSTALS.

Exists in 2 forms: red to reddish-yellow, tetragonal crystals at ordinary temperature; yellow, orthorhombic crystals, stable above 489 °C

Yellow orthorhombic crystals

MP: 897 °C, begins to sublime before melting

In water: 0.0504 g/L at 25 °C (alpha form); 0.1065 g/L at 25 °C (beta form)

Water: 0.017 g/L at 20 °C

Insoluble in water, alcohol; soluble in acetic acid, dilute nitric acid, warm soln of fixed alkali hydroxides

Soluble in ammonium chloride

Solubility in water: none

9.5 at 68 °F (USCG, 1999) - Denser than water; will sink

9.64 g/cu cm

Density: 9.53 g/cu cm (alpha); 9.6 g/cu cm (beta)

9.5 g/cm³

1 Pa at 724 °C; 10 Pa at 816 °C; 100 Pa at 928 °C; 1kPa at 1065 °C; 10 kPa at 1241 °C; 100 kPa at 1471 °C

Stable under recommended storage conditions.

Exists in 2 forms: (1) Red to reddish-yellow, tetragonal crystals; stable at ordinary temps. (2) Yellow, orthorhombic crystals; stable >489 °C

When heated to decomposition it emits toxic fumes of /lead/.

Strong base

Commercial grades are yellow to reddish, depending on treatment and purity

At 300-450 °C in air converted slowly into lead tetraoxide (Pb3O4) but at higher temp reverts to lead oxide (PbO)

Reddish, alpha form (litharge)is stable up to 489 °C where it transforms to the yellow, beta form (massicot). The latter is stable at high temperatures.

Amphoteric, dissolving in acids and alkalies. In alkalies, it forms the plumbite ion, PbO2(2-).

Metals -> Lead Compounds, Inorganic

No rapid reaction with air. No rapid reaction with water.

Non-Redox-Active Inorganic Compounds

LITHARGE has weak oxidizing or reducing powers. Redox reactions can however still occur. The majority of compounds in this class are slightly soluble or insoluble in water. If soluble in water, then the solutions are usually neither strongly acidic nor strongly basic. These compounds are not water-reactive. Aluminum carbide is oxidized with incandescence on warming with lead oxide, [Mellor, 1946, Vol. 5, 872]. Mixtures of lead oxide with aluminum powder(as with other metals: sodium, zirconium) give a violent explosions, [Mellor, 1946, Vol. 5, 217, 1941].

Incompatible materials: Hydrogen peroxide, strong oxidizing agents, acids

Explosive reaction with rubidium acetylide at 200 °C, zirconium + heat, silicon + aluminum + heat, chlorine + ethylene (at 100 °C), perchloric acid + glycerin.

Violent or explosive thermite reaction when heated with aluminum powder.

Violent or explosive reaction with chlorinated rubber (above 200 °C), fluoroelastomers (at 200 °C), peroxyformic acid.

For more Hazardous Reactivities and Incompatibilities (Complete) data for Lead(II) Oxide (18 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

IDENTIFICATION AND USE: Lead oxide exists in 2 forms: red to reddish-yellow, tetragonal crystals and yellow, orthorhombic crystals. It is used in manufacturing of storage batteries, ceramic products, paints, and rubber. HUMAN EXPOSURE AND TOXICITY: Acute lead encephalopathy in early infancy has been reported in a Middle Eastern study for 14 infants following the use of Bint al Dahab, a traditional medicine containing 91% lead monoxide. Twenty-seven one- to six-year-old children of 22 workers at a storage battery plant at high risk of exposure to lead oxide were compared with 32 one- to six-year-old children in 22 neighborhood control families for evidence of increased lead absorption. Workers' children had significantly higher blood lead and erythrocyte protoporphyrin values than control children. Chromosomes were analyzed in cultured lymphocytes of 44 male workers from a lead oxide factory, and from a control group of 15 nonexposed individuals. Lead concentration in blood ranged from 30 to 75 ug/100 mL in exposed subjects and from 15 to 35 ug/10 mL in controls. Length of exposure to lead ranged from one month to 11 years eight months. In subjects occupationally exposed to lead, a significant increase in chromatid and chromosome aberrations was found. The frequency of such findings parallels exposure time to lead. ANIMAL STUDIES: 30 male and 30 female hamsters were intratracheally injected with 1 mg lead oxide, alone or with 1 mg benzo(a)pyrene once a wk for 10 wk. Lead oxide alone induced alveolar metaplasia (19) and adenomatous proliferation (3) in the lungs. In combination with benzo(a) pyrene, lead oxide caused adenoma (9) and adenocarcinomas (1) in the peripheral area of the lungs, as well as alveolar metaplasia (23) and adenomatous proliferation (5). In male rats inhalation of lead oxide did not affect fertility, but seminal vesicle weight dropped significantly, which might suggest an alteration in the pattern of testosterone secretion. In the male progeny of sires that inhaled lead, the number of epididymal spermatozoa decreased but this did not interfere with fertility. Rabbits exposed to PbO at 30 ug/cu m for 4 days (3 hr/day) were sacrificed and their lungs lavaged immediately, 24 hr, and 72 hr after the final exposure. Lactate dehydrogenase (a marker of lung cell damage) and lysozyme activity (a marker of lysosome permeability), measured in the lavage fluid, were significantly increased 24 and 72 hr after exposure. PbO produced neutrophil infiltration. Effects on macrophage functions were also noted. ECOTOXICITY STUDIES: Lead oxide has a significant effect on behavior, morphology, and histopathology of earthworms (Eisenia fetida, Savigny).

There is limited evidence in humans for the carcinogenicity of inorganic lead compounds. ... There is sufficient evidence in experimental animals for the carcinogenicity of inorganic lead compounds. There is sufficient evidence in experimental animals for the carcinogenicity of lead acetate, lead subacetate, lead chromate, and lead phosphate. There is inadequate evidence in experimental animals for the carcinogenicity of lead oxide and lead arsenate. ... There is inadequate evidence in experimental animals for the carcinogenicity of lead powder. Overall evaluation Inorganic lead compounds are probably carcinogenic to humans (Group 2A). /Inorganic lead compounds/

CLASSIFICATION: B2; probable human carcinogen. BASIS FOR CLASSIFICATION: Sufficient animal evidence. Ten rat bioassays and one mouse assay have shown statisticlly significant increases in renal tumors with dietary and subcutaneous exposure to several soluble lead salts. Animal assays provide reproducible results in several laboratories, in multiple rat strains with some evidence of multiple tumor sites. Short term studies show that lead affects gene expression. Human evidence is inadequate. HUMAN CARCINOGENICITY DATA: Inadequate. ANIMAL CARCINOGENICITY DATA: Sufficient. /Lead and Compounds (inorganic), Based on former classification system/

A3; Confirmed animal carcinogen with unknown relevance to humans. /Lead and and inorganic compounds, as Pb/

Lead and lead compounds are reasonably anticipated to be human carcinogens based on limited evidence of carcinogenicity from studies in humans and sufficient evidence of carcinogenicity from studies in experimental animals. /Lead and Lead compounds/

The substance can be absorbed into the body by inhalation and by ingestion.

Abdominal pain. Nausea. Vomiting.

Neurotoxin - Predominantly motor

Nephrotoxin - The chemical is potentially toxic to the kidneys in the occupational setting.

Hemolytic anemia - Decreased hemoglobin or number of red blood cells.

Reproductive Toxin - A chemical that is toxic to the reproductive system, including defects in the progeny and injury to male or female reproductive function. Reproductive toxicity includes developmental effects. See Guidelines for Reproductive Toxicity Risk Assessment.

IARC Carcinogen - Class 2: International Agency for Research on Cancer classifies chemicals as probable (2a), or possible (2b) human carcinogens.

NTP Carcinogen - Reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen.

ACGIH Carcinogen - Confirmed Animal.

LC50 Rat inhalation >5.05 mg/L/4 hr

LD50 Rat dermal >2000 mg/kg

LD50 Rat oral >2000 mg/kg

Heterogeneous chemistry of nitrogen dioxide with lead-containing particles is investigated to better understand lead metal mobilization in the environment. In particular, PbO particles, a model lead-containing compound due to its widespread presence as a component of lead paint and as naturally occurring minerals, massicot, and litharge, are exposed to nitrogen dioxide at different relative humidity. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) shows that upon exposure to nitrogen dioxide the surface of PbO particles reacts to form adsorbed nitrates and lead nitrate thin films with the extent of nitrate formation relative humidity dependent. NO(2)-exposed PbO particles are found to have an increase in the amount of lead that dissolves in aqueous suspensions at circumneutral pH compared to particles not exposed. These results point to the potential importance and impact that heterogeneous chemistry with trace atmospheric gases can have on increasing solubility and therefore the mobilization of heavy metals, such as lead, in the environment. This study also shows that surface intermediates that form, such as adsorbed lead nitrates, can yield higher concentrations of lead in water systems. These water systems can include drinking water, groundwater, estuaries, and lakes.

Chelating agents in plasma reduce the proportion of metals bound to proteins. EDTA Ca is energetic on all metals mainly on lead, cadmium, and zinc. N-acetyl-DL penicillamin is less energetic. Meso 2,3 dimercapto succinic acid, and 2,3 dimercapto-1-propan sulfonic acid have an effect only on Lead but in a very light way. ... /Metal oxides/

30 male and 30 female hamsters (Syrian golden, 6 wk old) were intratracheally injected with 1 mg lead oxide, alone or with 1 mg benzo(a)pyrene once a wk for 10 wk. Lead oxide alone induced alveolar metaplasia (19) and adenomatous proliferation (3) in the lungs. In combination with benzo(a) pyrene, lead oxide caused adenoma (9) and adenocarcinomas (1) in the peripheral area of the lungs, as well as alveolar metaplasia (23) and adenomatous proliferation (5).

The pulmonary toxicity of sodium diethyldithiocarbamate and lead(II) oxide alone or in combination was studied in rats after a single intratracheal instillation. The lead content in the lungs and the whole blood was determined and it has been found that the clearance of lead from the lung was delayed by dithiocarbamate complex formation, which probably had a role in increased IgA levels in the bronchoalveolar fluid and the induction of local immune response. The combined exposure gave rise to calcium deposits in the lungs both extra- and intracellularly after 1 month of exposure. Both separate and combined exposure invoked permanent injury in membranes or dystrophic changes in the cytoplasm of pneumocytes, which may initiate and generate a series of events leading to fibrosing alveolitis.

An 89-year-old man acutely ingested approximately three ounces of a ceramic glaze preparation with a 30% lead oxide content. A blood lead level of 18 ug/dL was reported from a sample drawn within 1 hour of ingestion and just prior to gastric lavage. Following lavage, an abdominal radiograph demonstrated lead throughout the small intestine. Whole bowel irrigation was then undertaken and subsequent x-rays demonstrated clearing of all lead in the small bowel. At 16 and 24 hours post-ingestion, blood lead levels rose to 39 ug/dL and 42 ug/dL, respectively, and the patient then underwent a 5-day course of chelation therapy. ...

Immediate first aid: Ensure that adequate decontamination has been carried out. If patient is not breathing, start artificial respiration, preferably with a demand-valve resuscitator, bag-valve-mask device, or pocket mask, as trained. Perform CPR if necessary. Immediately flush contaminated eyes with gently flowing water. Do not induce vomiting. If vomiting occurs, lean patient forward or place on left side (head-down position, if possible) to maintain an open airway and prevent aspiration. Keep patient quiet and maintain normal body temperature. Obtain medical attention. /Lead and related compounds/

Basic treatment: Establish a patent airway (oropharyngeal or nasopharyngeal airway, if needed). Suction if necessary. Watch for signs of respiratory insufficiency and assist ventilations if necessary. Administer oxygen by nonrebreather mask at 10 to 15 L/min. Monitor for shock and treat if necessary ... . Anticipate seizures and treat if necessary ... . For eye contamination, flush eyes immediately with water. Irrigate each eye continuously with 0.9% saline (NS) during transport ... . Do not use emetics. For ingestion, rinse mouth and administer 5 mL/kg up to 200 mL of water for dilution if the patient can swallow, has a strong gag reflex, and does not drool. Administer activated charcoal ... . /Lead and related compounds/

Advanced treatment: Consider orotracheal or nasotracheal intubation for airway control in the patient who is unconscious or is in severe respiratory distress. Moderate hyperventilation (20 respirations per minute) may be beneficial for increased intracranial pressure. Start IV administration of 0.9% saline (NS) or lactated Ringer's (LR) TKO /SRP: "To keep open", minimal flow rate/. For hypotension with signs of hypovolemia, administer fluid cautiously. Watch for signs of fluid overload ... . Treat seizures with diazepam (Valium) or lorazepam (Ativan) ... . Use proparacaine hydrochloride to assist eye irrigation ... . /Lead and related compounds/

For more Antidote and Emergency Treatment (Complete) data for Lead(II) Oxide (10 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

/CASE REPORTS/ An 89-year-old man acutely ingested approximately three ounces of a ceramic glaze preparation with a 30% lead oxide content. A blood lead level of 18 ug/dL was reported from a sample drawn within 1 hour of ingestion and just prior to gastric lavage. Following lavage, an abdominal radiograph demonstrated lead throughout the small intestine. Whole bowel irrigation was then undertaken and subsequent x-rays demonstrated clearing of all lead in the small bowel. At 16 and 24 hours post-ingestion, blood lead levels rose to 39 ug/dL and 42 ug/dL, respectively, and the patient then underwent a 5-day course of chelation therapy. ...

/CASE REPORTS/ Acute lead encephalopathy in early infancy has been reported in a Middle Eastern study for 14 infants following the use of Bint al Dahab, a traditional medicine containing 91% lead monoxide ... .

/EPIDEMIOLOGY STUDIES/ Twenty-seven one- to six-year-old children of 22 workers at a storage battery plant at high risk of exposure to lead oxide were compared with 32 one- to six-year-old children in 22 neighborhood control families for evidence of increased lead absorption. Workers' children had significantly higher blood lead (p< 0.001) and erythrocyte protoporphyrin (p < 0.003) values than control children. Household exposures to lead in paint and water were similar for the two groups, but workers' homes had significantly higher concentrations of lead in dust (p < 0.001). It is postulated that lead is brought home on the skin, hair and clothing of the workers and that their children are ingesting or inhaling the lead in household dust. This is the first report of increased lead absorption in children of workers in this industry.

/EPIDEMIOLOGY STUDIES/ The effectiveness and practical utility of currently used monitoring parameters for lead exposure were evaluated. Concentration of blood lead, hemoglobin, free erythrocyte protoporphyrin, zinc protoporphyrin, and urinary lead were compared in 154 employees of a battery plant (SIC-3691) and a lead smelter (SIC-3332), and 163 age and sex matched comparisons not occupationally exposed to lead. Fumes of lead-oxide were collected with personal samplers for an 8 hour period and concentrations were measured by dithizone colorimetry. In both industries, air levels of lead oxide were above 0.05 mg/cu m. Good correlations were found between lead exposure level and elevations of all monitoring parameters. The most efficient discriminator was found to be blood lead level measurement.

For more Human Toxicity Excerpts (Complete) data for Lead(II) Oxide (7 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Acute Exposure/ The potential skin sensitizing properties of the test article "LITHARGE lead oxide" were assessed in the guinea pig maximization sensitization test carried out as an adjuvant test according to the Magnusson & Kligman Maximisation test method, using 10 test and 5 control animals in the main test. Following the induction exposure to the test article (50% in petrolatum) or the vehicle petrolatum (control article), the animals of both groups were subjected two weeks later to a challenge exposure with the test article (50% in petrolatum) as well as the control article. Responses to the challenge procedure were evaluated 24 and 48 hours after the end of the exposure period. No allergic skin reactions occurred in test animals 24 and 48 hours after the end of the challenge procedure. The sensitisation rate was 0%. No findings were observed in control animals (reaction rate:0%). According to the EEC Directive 2001/59/EEC, 6 August 2001 and the Gefahrstoffverordnung (GefStoffV) of 15 November 1999 (BGB1. I, p.2233) test conditions described, the test article "LITHARGE lead oxide" can be classified as a "non-sensitizer" since no allergic responses were observed in test animals under the experimental conditions described.

/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Acute Exposure/ The potential toxicity of LITHARGE lead oxide was assessed in an acute eye irritation/corrosion test on 3 albino rabbits. In each animal, 0.1 g of the test article was introduced into the conjunctival sac of the right eye, the untreated left eye served as control. Both eyes were examined at 1, 24, 48 and 72 hours post applicationem. The following results were obtained: Between 24 and 72 hours after instillation no ocular findings were seen. The only finding was slight redness of the conjunctivae in one animal 1 hr after instillation. No general toxic effects were observed. The mean grades of ocular reactions 24, 48 and 72 hours after instillation were "0" in each animal. ...

/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Acute Exposure/ The potential toxicity of "LITHARGE lead oxide" was assessed in an acute dermal irritation/corrosion test on three albino rabbits. In each animal, 0.5 g of the solid test article was applied on the right side of the dorsal clipped region, the untreated left side served as control. Exposure duration was 4 hours. Both sides were examined at 1, 24, 48, and 72 hours after the end of exposure. The following results were obtained: No signs of erythema and oedema were observed; No general toxic effects were seen; The mean grades at 24, 48, and 72 hours after the end of exposure were "0" in each animal. ...

/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Subchronic or Prechronic Exposure/ An animal model using rats was developed to initiate investigations on the bioavailability of different sources of environmental lead. Lead must be absorbed and transported to target organs like brain, liver, kidney, and bone, before susceptible cells can be harmed. The bioavailability and therefore the toxicity of lead are dependent upon the route of exposure, dose, chemical structure, solubility, particle size, matrix incorporation, and other physiological and physicochemical factors. In the present study male F344 rats were fed <; or = 38 microns size particles of lead sulfide, lead oxide, lead acetate, and a lead ore concentrate from Skagway, Alaska, mixed into the diet at doses of 0, 10, 30, and 100 ppm as lead for 30 d. No mortality or overt symptoms of lead toxicity were observed during the course of the study. Maximum blood lead concentrations attained in the 100 ppm groups were approximately 80 ug/dL in rats fed lead acetate and lead oxide, and were approximately 10 ug/L in those fed lead sulfide and lead ore concentrate. Maximum bone lead levels in rats fed soluble lead oxide and lead acetate were much higher (approximately 200 ug/g) than those seen in rats fed the less soluble lead sulfide and lead ore (approximately 10 ug/g); kidney lead concentrations were also about 10-fold greater in rats fed the more soluble compared to the less soluble lead compounds. However, strong correlations between dose and tissue lead concentrations were observed in rats fed each of the four different lead compounds. Kidney lesions graded as minimal occurred in 7/10 rats fed 30 ppm and in 10/10 rats fed 100 ppm lead acetate, but not at lower doses or from other lead compounds. Similarly, urinary aminolevulinic acid excretion, a biomarker for lead toxicity, was increased in rats fed 100 ppm lead acetate or lead oxide, but was unaffected at lower doses or by the less soluble lead compounds. Although the histological and biochemical responses to lead toxicity were restricted to the more soluble lead compounds in this study, lead from Skagway lead ore concentrate and lead sulfide was also bioavailable, and accumulated in proportion to dose in vulnerable target organs such as bone and kidney. ... /Lead oxide nanoparticles/

For more Non-Human Toxicity Excerpts (Complete) data for Lead(II) Oxide (12 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

The following link will take the user to the National Toxicology Program (NTP) Test Agent Search Results page, which tabulates all of the "Short-Term Toxicity Studies" and 'Special Studies" performed with this chemical. Clicking on the "Testing Status" link will take the user to the status (i.e., in review, in progress, in preparation, on test, completed, etc.) and results of all the studies that the NTP has done on this chemical.[Available from, as of May 3, 2016: http://ntp.niehs.nih.gov/testing/status/agents/ts-10677-y.html]

LC50; Species: Gambusia affinis (Western mosquitofish) adult; Conditions: freshwater, static, 18-20 °C, pH 7.1-7.2; Concentration: >56,000 mg/L for 24 hr /formulated product/

LC50; Species: Gambusia affinis (Western mosquitofish) adult; Conditions: freshwater, static, 18-20 °C, pH 7.1-7.2; Concentration: >56,000 mg/L for 48 hr /formulated product/

LC50; Species: Gambusia affinis (Western mosquitofish) adult; Conditions: freshwater, static, 18-20 °C, pH 7.1-7.2; Concentration: >56,000 mg/L for 96 hr /formulated product/

LC50; Species: Gambusia affinis (Western mosquitofish) adult; Conditions: freshwater, static, 18-20 °C, pH 7.1-7.2; Concentration: >56,000 mg/L for 24 hr /formulated product/

LC50; Species: Gambusia affinis (Western mosquitofish) adult; Conditions: freshwater, static, 18-20 °C, pH 7.1-7.2; Concentration: >56,000 mg/L for 48 hr /formulated product/

LC50; Species: Gambusia affinis (Western mosquitofish) adult; Conditions: freshwater, static, 18-20 °C, pH 7.1-7.2; Concentration: >56,000 mg/L for 96 hr /formulated product/

LC50; Species: Daphnia magna (Water Flea) age <24 hr neonate; Conditions: freshwater, static, pH 7.5-9.1; Concentration: 132 ug/L for 48 hr /dissolved Pb/

LC50; Species: Daphnia magna (Water Flea) age <24 hr neonate; Conditions: freshwater, static, pH 7.5-9.1; Concentration: 388000 ug/L for 48 hr /total Pb ion/

/OTHER TERRESTRIAL SPECIES/ ... A study was carried out to monitor lead toxicity in soil, using adult earthworms (Eisenia fetida, Savigny). Leaded gasoline (TEL) and lead oxide are 383- and 211-fold more toxic than unleaded gasoline (MTBE) in 7 days of exposure and 627- and 290-fold more toxic in 14 days, respectively. Results indicate that the presence of TEL in leaded gasoline and lead oxide has a significant effect on behavior, morphology, and histopathology of earthworms. Absorption of TEL into the tissues is comparatively less than that of lead oxide but toxic effects were severe. Rupture of the cuticle, extrusion of coelomic fluid and inflexible metameric segmentation were observed, causing desensitization of the posterior region leading to fragmentation in earthworms.

/OTHER TERRESTRIAL SPECIES/ ... Woodlice (Porcellio scaber) /were exposed/ to treated soil litter containing between 100 and 12,800 mg/kg dry weight of lead, as lead oxide, over 64 wk. No significant effect was found on adult survival, number of young produced or on survival of young at exposures up to 6400 mg lead/kg. There was a significant reduction in all three parameters after exposure to 12,800 mg/kg.

Bioaccumulation of this chemical may occur in plants and mammals. It is strongly advised not to let the chemical enter into the environment.

Lead(II) oxide's production and use as in storage batteries, ceramic cements and fluxes, pottery and glazes, glass, chromium pigments, oil refining, varnishes, paints, enamels; assay of precious metal ores, manufacture of red lead, cement (with glycerol), acid-resisting compositions, match-head compositions, other lead compounds, and as a rubber accelerator may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams. Lead(II) oxide, litharge, occurs naturally in lanarkite and other lead minerals in combination with other lead salts. Lead(II) oxide can enter the environment during lead mining, ore processing, smelting, refining, recycling or disposal and there is evidence to suggest that the atmosphere is the major initial recipient. While the form of lead released is generally not reported in monitoring studies, lead(II) oxide may form naturally from lead and its compounds in the atmosphere and possibly also in soil. Therefore a source of lead emissions is a potential source of lead(II) oxide. If released to air, lead(II) oxide will exist solely in the particulate phase in the atmosphere. In soil, lead(II) oxide will not leach in soil because of its low solubility. It is expected to convert to more insoluble forms such as lead sulfate, lead phosphate, and lead sulfite. It also forms complexes with organic matter and clay minerals that limits its mobility. If released into water, lead(II) oxide will partly settle out due to its low solubility. In the dissolved state it will form ligands, the dominant ones varying with pH. Occupational exposure to lead(II) oxide may occur through inhalation and dermal contact with this compound at workplaces where lead(II) oxide is produced or used. Monitoring data indicate that the general population may be exposed to lead(II) oxide via inhalation of air, ingestion of some candies and medicinal remedies originating from other countries. (SRC)

One of the ultimate products of photolysis of lead compounds in the atmosphere is lead(II) oxide(1,2). One important mineral, lanarkite (PbSO4.PbO), contains lead(II) oxide in combination with lead sulfate(3).

Natural lead monoxide ... massicot /is/ found in USA (Colorado, Idaho, Nevada, & Virginia). ... /Massicot/

Lead(II) oxide's production and use as in storage batteries, ceramic cements and fluxes, pottery and glazes, glass, chromium pigments, oil refining, varnishes, paints, enamels; assay of precious metal ores, manufacture of red lead, cement (with glycerol), acid-resisting compositions, match-head compositions, other lead compounds, and as a rubber accelerator(1) may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams(SRC).

The exhaust from vehicles still using leaded gasoline contains lead oxides(1) as do emissions from blast furnaces, sintering, smelting and refining facilities(2,3). In addition to air emissions, lead(II) oxide may be discharged in wastewater and runoff from production and use facilities(2,4).

TERRESTRIAL FATE: Lead(II) oxide will not leach in soil because of its low solubility. In soil, lead(II) oxide is expected to convert to more insoluble forms such as lead sulfate, lead phosphate, and lead sulfite. It also forms complexes with organic matter and clay minerals that limits its mobility(1).

AQUATIC FATE: If released into water, lead(II) oxide will partly settle out due to its low solubility. In the dissolved state it will form ligands, the dominant ones varying with pH. In freshwater systems, the most important ligands are HCO3, CO3, OH and (OH)2, whereas in seawater they are Cl, CO3, (OH), (OH)2, Cl2, and CL3(1).

ATMOSPHERIC FATE: Lead(II) oxide released to the atmosphere will be in particulate form which will be removed from the air by wet and dry deposition. (SRC)

The major constituents of sintering and blast furnace operations appear to be lead oxide.lead sulfate (PbO.PbSO4) and PbSO4(1). The chemical composition of baghouse effluent from smelting and refining operations in one case was 70% PbO.PbSO4(2). Lead(II) oxide was identified, not quantified, in particulate matter collected on a filter in the vicinity of a lead smelter(3).

The composition of airborne lead particulates were measured in car exhaust (initial concentration and 18 hours after the sampled had set) and along urban and rural roads. Lead(II) oxide (PbO) was reported as a percentage of the total lead particles present, and in affiliation with other lead compounds as follows(1):[Table#1799]

SEDIMENT: The predominant forms of lead in sediment from the White River, IN were lead sulfate and lead(II) oxide(1).

Lead(II) oxide has been identified in candy packaged in ceramic jars from Mexico(1). Lead(II) oxide was found in imported candy from Mexico, specifically Bolirindo lollipops(2).

NIOSH (NOES Survey 1981-1983) has statistically estimated that 59,832 workers (19,722 of these are female) were potentially exposed to lead(II) oxide in the US(1). Occupational exposure to lead(II) oxide may occur through inhalation and dermal contact with this compound at workplaces where lead(II) oxide is produced or used(SRC). Monitoring data indicate that the general population may be exposed to lead(II) oxide via inhalation of air, ingestion of some candies and medicinal remedies originating from other countries(SRC).

People may be occupationally exposed to lead(II) oxide dust during its production and use as well as from smelting, refining, and other operations in which metallic lead is heated in the presence of air such as welding and soldering. The greatest potential for high-level occupational exposure is in lead smelting and refining and the most hazardous operations are those in which the metal is brought to high temperatures resulting in vaporization and subsequently fumes containing small, respirable particles(1).

Special brick mortar contained 71% lead(II) oxide(1). Bint al Dahab is a traditional medicine containing 91% lead monoxide(2).

... risk ... from the dust of lead(II) oxide which forms on the surface of molten metal. ... applies to process of "wire patenting" ... generally regarded as a "low toxicity" operation. Where ... precautions ... not observed, severe cases of poisoning have occurred.

For more Probable Routes of Human Exposure (Complete) data for Lead(II) Oxide (16 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

After being exposed to a special brick mortar that contained 71% lead(II) oxide, four members of an 11-man crew of bricklayers in western Washington state developed symptomatic lead poisoning(1). Peak blood lead levels (BLLs) for the four workers ranged from 88 to 123 ug/dL, in May 1989(1). In March 1999, two Hispanic children residing in Stanislaus County, CA had blood lead level (BLL) of 88.0 and 69.0 ug/dL after using a Mexican folk remedy called greta, that contains lead(II) oxide(2).

Generators of waste (equal to or greater than 100 kg/mo) containing this contaminant, EPA hazardous waste number D008, must conform with USEPA regulations in storage, transportation, treatment and disposal of waste.

Product: Offer surplus and non-recyclable solutions to a licensed disposal company. Contact a licensed professional waste disposal service to dispose of this material. Dissolve or mix the material with a combustible solvent and burn in a chemical incinerator equipped with an afterburner and scrubber; Contaminated packaging: Dispose of as unused product.

Sweep spilled substance into covered containers. If appropriate, moisten first to prevent dusting. Carefully collect remainder. Then store and dispose of according to local regulations.

Chemical Treatability of Lead; Concentration Process: Biological Treatment; Chemical Classification: Metal; Scale of Study: Respirometer Study; Results of Study: Oxygen uptake inhibited. /Inorganic lead cmpd/

Chemical Treatability of Lead; Concentration Process: Biological Treatment; Chemical Classification: Metal; Scale of Study: Laboratory Scale; Type of Wastewater Used: Synthetic Wastewater; Results of Study: No stimulation or inhibition of biological growth (study of Nitrosomonas bacteria). /Inorganic lead cmpd/

Do not transport with food and feedstuffs.

Symbol: T, N; R: 61-20/22-33-50/53-62; S: 53-45-60-61; Note: A, E

UN Hazard Class: 6.1