Evaluation of lead levels in decorative and automobile paints marketed in South–West, Nigeria

Paints and coatings add aesthetics to our daily lives. Their demand has increased due to urbanization and has led to an increase in lead (Pb) in the ecosystem and its potential risks to health. Pb is toxic and has no safe levels for children. This study examines the levels of lead in paints from major paint distribution markets in Southwestern Nigeria. Analyses were done using wet acid digestion and graphite-furnace atomic absorption spectrophotometry (AAS 220GF). The levels of Pb (µg/g ± SD in dry weight) ranged from 4790 ± 40 to 79,300 ± 80 in a light silver and matte black automobile paint, while in the decorative paints, samples ranged from 2220 ± 10 to 91,500 ± 49 in a cream (plastic) and black (enamel) color. The highest level of Pb in the plastic paints was up to 142 fold and 944 fold, while in the enamel, 153 fold and 1017 fold, above the 600 µg/g and 90 µg/g recommended limits by the United States Environmental Protection Agency and Consumer Product Safety Commission, respectively. Lead compounds are pigments used to improve the color quality of paint formulations. The present study poses a serious concern. As a result, there is a need for greater public awareness and strict enforcement of the ban on leaded paint by government regulatory bodies.