How should lead-contaminated clothing be properly handled?

Lead-contaminated clothing must be handled with particular care to prevent the spread of lead dust and ensure safety for all individuals in the environment. Laundering these items separately is crucial because lead can adhere to fabrics and be released into the washing machine, contaminating other items and the machine itself. By washing lead-contaminated clothing separately, the risk of cross-contamination with other garments is minimized, reducing the chance of lead exposure to others who may wear those clothes or who handle them after washing. This precaution helps maintain a safer living and working environment for everyone involved.

Other choices do not adhere to safe handling practices. Regular laundry could spread contaminants, storing in a common area could expose others to lead, and ignoring the clothing if not visibly dirty underestimates the risk of lead even in small amounts that may not be easily seen.