The principle of the method specified is based on digesting with acid the particulate material collected on a filter, solubilizing any lead present und analysing the sample solution by atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS). The method is applicable to ambient air samples with particulate lead contents, such that the amount of deposited particulate lead collected on the filter is greater than 1 µg if flame AAS is used. Final determination by graphite furnace AAS allows measurement of quantities of less than 1 µg, but is only applicable after experimental validation of detection limits.