Lead-Containing Materials Guidelines

6 Lead-Containing Materials Environmental Health and Safety (EH&S The Department of Environmental Health and Safety (EH&S) is designated as the university’s representative regarding issues involving lead. EH&S will • Coordinate disposal of lead-containing waste materials • Conduct sampling, monitoring, and inspections as deemed necessary to protect employee health and safety • Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements • Provide guidance to departments regarding lead, lead-exposure, and if necessary, lead abatement • Act as a liaison between ISU departments requesting services and lead abatement contractors • Provide training and respirator fit testing for employees who may disturb lead-containing materials Any questions concerning lead or items specified in this guide should be directed to EH&S at 294-5359. Lead-Based Paint Defined For the purposes of operations at ISU, EH&S will adopt the HUD definition of lead-based paint as follows: • 0.5% by weight as analyzed by a chemical laboratory, or • 1.0 milligrams per square centimeter (mg/cm 2 ) as measured by an X-ray fluorescence analyzer (XRF) Health Hazards of Lead Health effects from lead exposure are a concern both at the workplace and in the home. Since the ban on lead in gasoline, lead levels detected in areas near roadways have decreased dramatically; however, lead- based paint used in buildings and housing prior to 1980 continues to serve as a significant source of exposure. Lead poisoning can result from a single high-level (acute) exposure or through a number of smaller repetitive (chronic) exposures. Most adults are exposed to lead through occupational sources, while children and infants are exposed primarily through surface dust and soil. Floors, chewable surfaces, and soil contaminated with lead serve as primary exposure sources for children. Lead has no beneficial effect on humans. Once it has been ingested into the body, lead is distributed in the bloodstream to red blood cells, soft tissues and bone. Lead in the body is eliminated very slowly, mainly by the kidneys and digestive tract. Irreversible kidney damage