How to Limit Your Exposure to Lead

How to Limit Your Exposure to Lead



You may not think much about how to limit your exposure to lead in this day and age, but it is still a present danger for many. Lead exposure commonly occurs by inhaling lead dust or fumes in the workplace, in food, water, cigarettes, toys and clothes. Limiting your exposure to lead protects your total health. The effects of lead poisoning effect neurological, gastrointestinal, reproductive health and more.









1


Wear protective clothing including a mask, gloves, disposable shoes and overalls to limit your exposure to lead. Change your clothes before leaving the work site.





2


Find out about the preventive measures your employer will take when you work directly in lead exposed conditions. If you have lead exposure at work, your employer should wash all contaminated clothing. This helps limit your exposure to lead.





3


Pay attention when buying painted toys and decorations made in other countries.
Children
like bright and shiny toys. Unfortunately, many paints used in other countries contain lead because it produces vibrant colors. Young children put things in their mouths, so do your homework when buying toys made outside of the United States.





4


Test your drinking water if you live in a home with older pipes and plumbing. Lead exists in older plumbing and in pipes connected with lead solder.








Tips & Warnings










Avoid washing clothing exposed to lead dust in your home to reduce contamination.








Use caution when eating and drinking from pewter dinnerware and pitchers. These items contain lead that can leech into food and drinks.








Always remove the protective mask last when changing clothes exposed to lead dust particles.



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