Workplace Safety & Health Co. Inc. industrial hygienists cover a wide breadth of workplace environmental concerns, from noise to air quality, from chemical exposure to asbestos and lead paint identification. We can identify and evaluate hazards, and develop corrective action plans to economically solve your industrial hygiene problems.

Title 29 Code of Federal Regulations 1926.62, OSHA’s Lead Standard for the construction industry, addresses lead in a variety of forms, including metallic lead, all inorganic lead compounds, and organic lead soaps. According OSHA, lead is a cumulative and persistent toxic substance that poses a serious health risk.

Paint Sampling
There are currently two methods recognized by EPA for testing paint: using an X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF) analyzer and taking paint chip samples that are then analyzed by an accredited laboratory. We also use AutoCAD drawings to indicate the location of each sample. Photographs are taken of every sampling location to document the appearance of each surface coating we analyze.

Routes of Exposure
Certain types of lead exposure can damage the kidneys and the cardiovascular, central nervous or other body systems. It also can be harmful in children’s development. Most commonly, lead is inhaled as a dust or fume or accidentally ingested. Once it has entered the bloodstream, lead circulates through the body and is stored in certain organs and body tissues.

Often remodeling or renovation projects such as sanding, cutting with saws or torches, and demolition can create hazardous lead chips and dust by disturbing lead-based paint, which can be an unhealthy environment for adults and children. Workplace Safety & Health Co. Inc. can provide industry-standard testing for lead-based paint according to OSHA standards.