How to Avoid Lead Poisoning in Your Workplace

Lead can be found nearly everywhere, especially if you work in an older building. Lead is most commonly found in old paint. Although lead paint was banned in the United States in 1978, the ban did not require owners of older buildings to remove lead-based paint that was already present. Even though this was close to 40 years ago and most walls covered in lead paint have been painted over by now, when paint chips off to reveal the layers beneath, it is possible to be exposed to lead. Aside from paint, lead can be found in industrial, construction, and manufacturing equipment. If you suffer from the effects of lead poisoning as a result of exposure to the substance in your workplace, you could be entitled to receive monetary compensation for your damages through a workplace accident claim.

There are many ways you can protect yourself from lead poisoning at work. Lead enters the body through the nasal passages and through the skin, so it is important that you protect your mouth, nose, and exposed skin when working directly with lead. Like asbestos, lead is most dangerous when it is in its powder form because it can be inhaled.

Below are a few steps you can take to reduce your chance of suffering from lead poisoning:

• Wash your hands frequently. Do this before every meal and when you are finished working;
• Wipe down your work area regularly. This can include mopping the floors and running a wet cloth over any surfaces like your desk or window sill;
• If your building has older pipes, the pipes could contain lead. When you use the faucet, run cold water for at least a minute before turning the water to your desired temperature. Also consider installing a filter on the faucet to filter out lead and other dangerous particles;
• If you work with lead or lead-based products, always wear protective gear when handling them. This includes latex gloves on your hands, a surgical mask, and eyewear;
• Do not eat or drink in an area of your workplace where lead particles could be present; and
• If the lead paint in your workplace is chipping, speak to your supervisor about having a professional come to remove it or cover it. Do not attempt to remove lead-based paint on your own.

Prolonged exposure to lead can have a serious effect on your health. If you suffer from lead poisoning because of lead exposure in your workplace, consider seeking compensation for your damages and working with an experienced San Jose workplace accident attorney. The team at Corsiglia, McMahon, & Allard, L.L.P. is here to help you collect the money you deserve when you are suffering because of conditions present in your workplace. We proudly serve clients throughout the Bay Area, San Mateo County, Alameda County, San Benito County, Monterey County, and Santa Clara County.

• Protect Your Family from Exposures to Lead