Lead Hazards and Protecting Workers and Building Occupants from Exposure Risks

NEW YORK - July 18, 2022 - PRLog -- Lead poisoning is considered an entirely preventable environmental disease. Despite the knowledge that lead is a toxic metal, people are still being exposed to unsafe levels on the job and in residential, commercial, industrial, and institutional properties.

The health effects are similar if a person were to breathe-in, swallow, or absorb lead particles; however, the body absorbs higher levels of lead when inhaled, as stated by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). Lead also typically affects children more than it does adults.

NIOSH lists some differences and similarities between the health effects of short-term overexposure and prolonged exposure to lead. If a person is exposed to very high levels of lead over a short period they may feel abdominal pain, constipation, tiredness, headaches, irritability, loss of appetite, memory loss, pain, or tingling in the hands and/or feet, and weak. The agency goes on to share that exposure to high levels of lead may also cause anemia, and kidney or brain damage. Very high lead exposure can cause death.

Prolonged exposure health effects, reported by NIOSH, include abdominal pain, constipation, depression, being distracted, forgetful, irritable, and nauseous or sick. Exposure to lead over time may also increase the risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, kidney disease, and reduced fertility, according to the agency. Lead is also considered to be a likely human carcinogen.

"Identifying lead hazards to prevent exposure is key to stopping future cases of lead poisoning," said Frank Selamie, President of CTSI. "At CTSI we have successfully performed thousands of lead and lead-based paint-related projects with our team of Environmental Protection Agency lead certified risk assessors and inspectors. We conduct lead-based paint sampling and testing to comply with the NYC Department of Health, U.S. Department of Housing of Urban Development, and EPA guidelines. These services protect workers, building occupants, and help to keep companies in regulatory compliance."

CTSI recently sponsored an educational video about some of the health problems caused by lead exposure listed by NIOSH that can be viewed at: https://youtu.be/Gt9RSmIlh3s



To learn more about lead or other industrial hygiene, indoor air quality, environmental, health, and safety services, please visit www.ctsiweb.com, email contactus@ctsiweb.com, or call (212) 971-7016.