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Lead Hazard Analysis
Lead Hazard Analysis
Lead is a chemical element with the symbol Pb and atomic number 82. It is a heavy metal that is denser than most common materials. Lead is soft and malleable, and also has a relatively low melting point. When freshly cut, lead is silvery with a hint of blue; it tarnishes to a dull gray color when exposed to air.

DANGER: LEAD WORK AREA MAY DAMAGE FERTILITY OR THE UNBORN CHILD CAUSES DAMAGE TO THE CENTRAL NERVOUS SYSTEM DO NOT EAT, DRINK OR SMOKE IN THIS AREA.

Hazard
Lead can affect almost every organ and system in your body. The main target for lead toxicity is the nervous system, both in adults and children. Long-term exposure of adults can result in decreased performance in some tests that measure functions of the nervous system. It may also cause weakness in fingers, wrists, or ankles. Lead exposure also causes small increases in blood pressure, particularly in middle-aged and older people and can cause anemia. Exposure to high lead levels can severely damage the brain and kidneys in adults or children and ultimately cause death. In pregnant women, high-levels of exposure to lead may cause miscarriage. High-level exposure in men can damage the organs responsible for sperm production.

Standard


Policy

  • HQDA EXORD 031-19 - Ensuring safe and healthy workplaces that generate or have potential for exposure to heavy metals. Army Occupational Exposure Limits. CAC login required

Technical Guidance


Common HRAs

  • Outdoor Firing Ranges
  • Indoor Firing Ranges
  • Welding & Cutting
  • Brazing with Filler Metal that Contains Lead
  • Abrasive Blasting of Lead Based Paint
  • Sandblasting/Equipment Cleaning
  • Sanding & Grinding on Lead Based Painted Surfaces

Controls

  • Engineering
  • Ventilation with HEPA filters
  • Industrial Hygiene must verify controls are adequate.

Administrative

  • Never grind, sand, paint or produce respirable particles without proper controls.
  • Shower and change into work uniforms before leaving work area if contaminated.
  • Minimize the number of workers who have potential to be exposed.
  • Safety data sheets (SDSs) for Lead.
  • Medical screening.
  • HAZCOM training.

PPE

  • Respirators required if exposure above OSHA PEL, NIOSH REL or ACGIH TLV.
  • Face shielding, uniforms and gloves.
  • Industrial Hygiene must verify.