How to avoid lead exposure
- Wear protective clothing like overalls, disposable overshoes, hat and gloves.
- Do not use practices that produce dust clouds containing lead (e.g. dry sweeping, using compressed air to clean areas contaminated with lead, use of ordinary vacuum cleaners without HEPA filters).
- Wear a respirator designed in accordance with Section 8.4.3 of AS/NZS 1716 Respiratory Protective Devices (non-Queensland Government link) for the method used.
- Do not use inexpensive disposable dust masks with a single elastic strap, as they do not provide adequate respiratory protection against lead dust or lead fume hazards.
- Make sure the respirator fits and seals the face. To seal properly the face must be cleanly shaven. If you have a beard, you should wear a powered air-purifying respirator fitted with P2 or P3 filters.
- Store the respirator face down, in a sealed container away from the hazard source when not in use. Do not hang it by the straps.
- Check that the respirator is free of dust inside, all valves are in good condition and correct filters are fitted and in good condition before use.
- Leave the respirator on until the protective clothing has been removed.
- Change coveralls and overshoes before leaving the work area to avoid contaminating other areas.
- Use nailbrushes to wash hands and face thoroughly before smoking, eating or drinking near the work area.
- Do not take lead contaminated clothing home for laundering. Employers are responsible to ensure that lead contaminated clothing is laundered.
- Shower and wash hair as soon as possible after finishing work.
- Have your blood levels checked by a designated doctor if you are working with lead-based paint.
Read more about personal protective equipment (PPE).
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