During renovation, lead enters a worker's body mainly by
- absorption through the skin of the hands
- contact with the eyes
- noise and vibration from power tools
- breathing dust or fume and swallowing dust from hands
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D. breathing dust or fume and swallowing dust from hands
Workers inhale lead dust and fume and swallow dust carried on hands, food, drinks and cigarettes. Skin absorption of the inorganic lead found in paint is negligible.
Reference: OSHA 29 CFR 1926.62, Appendix A
Why is lead exposure a special concern for a pregnant worker or occupant?
- Lead crosses the placenta and can harm the developing baby
- Lead only affects women during pregnancy
- Lead causes an immediate allergic reaction
- Lead is filtered out by the placenta but still harms the mother
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A. Lead crosses the placenta and can harm the developing baby
Lead in the mother's blood passes through the placenta to the fetus and can affect its development. The placenta does not filter it out.
Reference: EPA Renovate Right; OSHA 29 CFR 1926.62, Appendix A
Which health effect is most closely linked with lead exposure in young children?
- Asbestosis
- Learning and behavior problems
- Chronic carbon monoxide poisoning
- Hay fever
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B. Learning and behavior problems
Lead damages the developing brain and nervous system, leading to reduced IQ, learning disabilities and behavior problems. Asbestosis comes from asbestos fibers, a different hazard.
Reference: EPA Renovate Right