A Cross‐Sectional Study on Baseline Characteristics and Exposure Spectrum of Occupational Lead and Coexisting Heavy Metal‐Exposed Populations

This study aims to clarify the baseline characteristics and exposure spectrum of populations occupationally exposed to lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), copper (Cu), and zinc (Zn), analyze exposure distribution across industries/occupations, and provide a basis for targeted occupational health protection. A cross‐sectional study was conducted among 2846 exposed employees in Hangzhou and surrounding areas (March 2023–September 2025). Demographic/occupational data, clinical indicators, blood lead (BLL), urinary cadmium (UCL), serum Cu, and Zn were collected. Data were analyzed using SPSS 26.0 and R 4.3.1. The results showed that the participants were mostly male (69.3%), with a median age of 36.8 years and exposure duration of 5.5 years. High‐risk industries included electronic manufacturing (31.7%), metallurgy (22.1%), and storage battery manufacturing (19.3%). Median BLL was 28.2 μg/L (11.8% ≥ 40 μg/L), and median UCL was 0.95 μg/g creatinine (9.1% ≥ 1.0 μg/g creatinine). Serum Cu/Zn were highest in metallurgy. Independent risk factors for elevated BLL: exposure > 10 years (OR = 1.85), male gender (OR = 1.51), storage battery manufacturing (OR = 2.12), and metallurgy (OR = 1.65). For elevated UCL: exposure > 10 years (OR = 2.28) and electroplating (OR = 1.95). In conclusion, heavy metal exposure varies by industry/occupation. Storage battery manufacturing, metallurgy, and electronic manufacturing are high‐risk. Long‐term exposure and male gender correlate with elevated Pb. Results support targeted prevention of occupational heavy metal poisoning.