Possible toxic metal exposure of prehistoric bronze workers.
An attempt has been made to assess the possible occupational exposure to arsenic, lead, and mercury during the Bronze Age. Archaeological, metallurgical, and historical evidence is combined to form a picture of the potential toxic hazards. In the case of arsenic a definite picture emerges of the effect of toxicity as a useful material is abandoned for health reasons on discovery of an acceptable alternative.
Harper
M
M
TUC Centenary Institute of Occupational Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, UK.
D000497:Alloys / Q000009:adverse effects; D001106:Archaeology; D001151:Arsenic / Q000009:adverse effects; D003300:Copper / Q000009:adverse effects; D004781:Environmental Exposure; D049690:History, Ancient; D006801:Humans; D007854:Lead / Q000009:adverse effects; D008628:Mercury / Q000009:adverse effects; D008669:Metallurgy / Q000266:history*; D008670:Metals / Q000009:adverse effects*
D000497:Alloys; D008670:Metals; D007854:Lead; D003300:Copper; D008628:Mercury; D001151:Arsenic