Training

Train Workers to Get the Lead Out!

By Chris Kilbourne Mar 7, 2013 Training

Updated: Mar 7, 2013

There are many serious health hazards associated with lead. However, with proper training and use of protective equipment, your workers can get the job done safely. Today’s Advisor gives you some basic training advice on working safely with lead.

This information comes from BLR’s popular 7-Minute Safety Trainer session on “Lead Hazards and Precautions.”

First, explain the hazards. The greatest risk of lead exposure comes from old buildings and equipment. Lead was once widely used in lead-based paint, lead pipes, and solder. Demolition or repairs to these buildings can release lead particles and dusts. These particles and dusts can be inhaled or land on food and be swallowed by accident.

Exposure to lead can result in:

Anemia,
Damage to the kidneys, the nervous system, and other internal organs, and
Damage to the reproductive systems of both men and women as well as their unborn children.

Train workers to avoid exposing themselves to lead hazards by using the proper protection.

Use respirators whenever lead levels exceed the permissible exposure limit (PEL).
Wear protective clothing, including coveralls, gloves, hats, shoe covers, and face shields or vented goggles.
Never shake protective equipment or blow lead dust off clothing.

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Symptoms

Also train workers to recognize the symptoms of possible lead exposure, including:

Loss of appetite
Metallic taste in the mouth
Nausea
Stomach pain
Weakness
Fatigue
Insomnia
Muscle or joint pain
Numbness
Tremors
Dizziness

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Instruct workers to report symptoms of lead exposure immediately to get treatment and avoid serious problems.

Why It Matters

For many years, people were unaware of the serious dangers of lead, so lead was widely used in lead-based paint, lead pipes, solder, and certain construction materials.
Today, the greatest risk of lead exposure comes from old buildings and equipment.
Demolition or repairs to these buildings can release lead particles and dusts.