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OK International


US companies selling lead paint and pigments abroad

A new study reveals that over 90% of lead paints sold in Mexico contain hazardous lead chromate pigments, which dominate the market. The widespread use of these pigments poses serious health consequences for children and workers, with alarming levels of blood lead found in Mexican children.

SourceOK International·JournalAnnals of Work Exposures and Health·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 21, 2026

Current uses of asbestos exceed exposure limits

A new study reveals that airborne asbestos fibers from asbestos cement products exceed the permissible limit by 50 times, posing alarming health risks to workers. The study highlights the need for a ban on all asbestos cement products due to their hazardous nature and insufficient safety measures.

SourceOK International·JournalAnnals of Work Exposures and Health·TypeLiterature review·DateNov 14, 2023

Lead poisoning reduced with safer mining practices

A pilot program introducing safer mining practices in Nigerian gold mining communities has reduced blood lead levels among miners by 32%. The study, published in the British Medical Journal Occupational and Environmental Medicine, also found that women miners experienced lower reductions in lead levels. The project's success demonstrat...

SourceOK International·JournalOccupational and Environmental Medicine·DateOct 21, 2019

Safer mining practices reduce hazardous exposures in small-scale mining in Nigeria

A pilot program introducing safer mining practices reduced airborne lead levels by 95% and respirable silica dust by 80%, saving hundreds of children from lead poisoning. The project's success demonstrates the effectiveness of low-cost dust control measures in reducing hazardous exposures in artisanal small-scale mining communities.

SourceOK International·JournalAnnals of Work Exposures and Health·DateJan 8, 2019

Cookware made with scrap metal contaminates food

A study across 10 countries found that aluminum cookware made from scrap metal contaminates food with high levels of lead, arsenic, and cadmium. The investigation reveals a significant risk to public health, particularly for children, who may experience IQ reduction, brain damage, and cardiovascular disease.

SourceOK International·JournalThe Science of The Total Environment·DateJan 23, 2017