Seven hundred and twenty subjects not occupationally exposed to lead were examined, among blood donors from a Bari hospital. Short case-histories were taken including personal data, residence, occupation, habits. The parameters considered were blood lead and protoporphyrin levels. The mean values found in Bari were respectively, 8.4 micrograms/100 ml, S.D. = 4.5 and 11.3 micrograms/100 ml, S.D. = 10.9. The results show that, at present, reference values for blood lead levels in the population are lower than the limits set by D.P.R. No. 496/82 which incorporates EEC directive No. 77/312 concerning biological monitoring of lead exposed populations.