Lead Exposure
Construction and general industry · Ver en español
Talking points
- Lead exposure in construction most commonly occurs during demolition, paint removal, cutting or welding on painted steel, and bridge rehabilitation.
- The OSHA PEL for lead is 50 micrograms per cubic meter (8-hour TWA). The action level is 30 µg/m³.
- In construction, biological monitoring is required when airborne lead exceeds the action level. Medical removal is triggered at a blood lead level of 50 µg/dL.
- Lead dust can be carried home on clothing and shoes, exposing your family. Use disposable coveralls, shower before leaving the site, and never take contaminated clothing home.
- Eating, drinking, smoking, or applying cosmetics in lead-contaminated areas is prohibited. Wash your hands and face before any of these activities.
Ask the crew
Does anyone know if the structure we're working on has lead-based paint — and how would we find out?
Standards this talk is built on
A toolbox talk is a short safety briefing. It supports the training a standard requires; it does not replace it.
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Sign-in sheet
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