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⚠️ Lead Safety

Topic: Lead exposure hazards in construction Duration: 5-7 minutes Required: Awareness training for workers exposed to lead

Where Lead is Found​

Common sources:

  • Paint - Pre-1978 buildings
  • Pipes - Plumbing systems
  • Solder - Electrical, plumbing
  • Batteries - Vehicle batteries
  • Roofing - Some roofing materials

Health Hazards​

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 Routes​

How You're Exposed​

  1. Inhalation - Breathing lead dust
  2. Ingestion - Swallowing lead (hands to mouth)
  3. Skin contact - Some lead compounds

Protection​

Work Practices​

  • 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

PPE​

  • Respirator - If exposure above PEL
  • Protective clothing - Disposable coveralls
  • Gloves - When handling lead materials

Medical Surveillance​

Required if:

  • Exposure above action level (30 μg/m³)
  • Working with lead for 30+ days per year

Includes:

  • Blood lead testing
  • Medical evaluation
  • Periodic monitoring
Health Hazard

Lead exposure causes serious health problems. Use proper work practices and PPE when working with lead materials.