PETROL IN THE HOME

Otago Daily Times, Issue 25429, 10 January 1944, Page 2

PETROL IN THE HOME

DANGERS OF LEADED SPIRIT A warning is issued against the use of “ leaded ” petrol in private homes for the purpose of dry-cleaning or in petrol irons and lamps. “ Leaded ” petrol is spirit to which lead tetraethyl has. been added to prevent knocking in the engine, and its danger lies in tne transmission of lead poisoning to those who use it without taking proper precautions, states the Health Department in a circular.

The petrol industry itself had to go in for improved working conditions and introduce rigid medical supervision when this new development made its appearance because of the great increase in lead poisoning among the employees. Private home users, however, cannot be expected to bother with all the safety precautions to avoid danger to health. Their safest ■course, therefore, is to use the unleaded petrol, which, it is understood, can be made available through the oil fuel controller.

Lead poisoning is a highly unpleasant business. The early symptoms are paleness, tiredness, loss of appetite and weight, and general abdominal discomfort, and there is the hidden symptom of interference with the blood state, which is a real and serious danger to health Lead poisoning affects particularly the nervous system, sleep being difficult, and headaches and giddiness, coupled with general weakness, common. Lead poisoning is regarded as a very serious trouble—so serious that away back in 1928 the British Ministry of Health found it necessary to issue a .warning against the use of leaded petrol for cooking or cleaning in the home.