โ ๏ธ Lead Safety
Topic: Lead exposure hazards in construction Duration: 5-7 minutes Required: Awareness training for workers exposed to lead
Where Lead is Foundโ
Common sources:
- Paint - Pre-1978 buildings
- Pipes - Plumbing systems
- Solder - Electrical, plumbing
- Batteries - Vehicle batteries
- Roofing - Some roofing materials
Health Hazardsโ
Lead exposure causes:
- Brain damage - Cognitive problems
- Kidney damage - Kidney disease
- Reproductive problems - Birth defects
- Anemia - Blood problems
Children are most vulnerable - Can bring lead home on clothes.
Exposure Routesโ
How You're Exposedโ
- Inhalation - Breathing lead dust
- Ingestion - Swallowing lead (hands to mouth)
- Skin contact - Some lead compounds
Protectionโ
Work Practicesโ
- Wet methods - Keep materials wet
- HEPA vacuum - Use HEPA vacuum, not dry sweeping
- Containment - Contain work area
- No eating/drinking - In work area
- Wash hands - Before eating, after work
PPEโ
- Respirator - If exposure above PEL
- Protective clothing - Disposable coveralls
- Gloves - When handling lead materials
Medical Surveillanceโ
Required if:
- Exposure above action level (30 ฮผg/mยณ)
- Working with lead for 30+ days per year
Includes:
- Blood lead testing
- Medical evaluation
- Periodic monitoring
Related Resourcesโ
- Asbestos Awareness - Another hazardous material
- Respiratory Protection - Respirator use
Health Hazard
Lead exposure causes serious health problems. Use proper work practices and PPE when working with lead materials.