Lead exposure in radiator repair workers: a survey of Washington State radiator repair shops and review of occupational lead exposure registry data.
Radiator repair workers in Washington State have the greatest number of very elevated (> or =60 microg/dL) blood lead levels of any other worker population. The goals of this study were to determine the number of radiator repair workers potentially exposed to lead; estimate the extent of blood lead data underreporting to the Occupational Lead Exposure Registry; describe current safety and health practices in radiator repair shops; and determine appropriate intervention strategies to reduce exposure and increase employer and worker awareness. Lead exposure in Washington State's radiator repair workers was assessed by reviewing Registry data and conducting a statewide survey of radiator repair businesses. This study revealed that a total of 226 workers in Washington State (including owner-operators and all employees) conduct repair activities that could potentially result in excessive exposures to lead. Approximately 26% of radiator repair workers with elevated blood lead levels (> or =25 microg/dL) were determined to report to Washington State's Registry. This study also revealed a lack of awareness of lead's health effects, appropriate industrial hygiene controls, and the requirements of the Lead Standard. Survey respondents requested information on a variety of workplace health and safety issues and waste management; 80% requested a confidential, free-of-charge consultation. Combining data derived from an occupational health surveillance system and a statewide mail survey proved effective at characterizing lead exposures and directing public health intervention in Washington State.
Whittaker
Stephen G
SG
Safety & Health Assessment & Research for Prevention (SHARP) Program, Department of Labor & Industries, PO Box 44330, Olympia, WA 98504-4330, USA. whiw235@lni.wa.gov
D003625:Data Collection; D006801:Humans; D007854:Lead / Q000633:toxicity*; D007855:Lead Poisoning / Q000453:epidemiology*; D008283:Maintenance; D018986:Motor Vehicles; D016273:Occupational Exposure / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000032:analysis; D012042:Registries; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D014861:Washington / Q000453:epidemiology; D000078329:Workforce; D017132:Workplace
D007854:Lead