What personal protective equipment (PPE) is required for workers handling lead?

Workers handling lead are at significant risk for exposure, making the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) crucial for their safety. The correct combination of PPE includes coveralls, respirators, gloves, and eye protection.

Coveralls are essential as they minimize the risk of lead dust coming into contact with the skin and personal clothing, which can spread contamination. Respirators are critical for protecting workers from inhaling lead particles, especially in environments with dust or fumes. Gloves further help in preventing direct skin contact with lead, while eye protection is necessary to shield against splashes or dust that can irritate or injure the eyes.

This comprehensive approach addresses multiple routes of exposure—dermal, inhalation, and ocular—ensuring a higher level of safety for workers. Other options do not provide the necessary full-spectrum protection from lead exposure, missing key components of the required PPE.