Lead additions improve the appearance and cutting properties of crystal glass. Small additions are also made to optical and electrical glass. The major application of leaded glass is in television screens and computer monitors to protect viewers from the harmful X-rays generated by these appliances. Lead-containing glazes are used for some pottery, tiles and tableware.

Lead compounds were universally added to petrol to improve its efficiency at low cost. This has been the major source of lead emissions to the environment. It is now being phased out almost universally because of concerns about health impacts.