Lead exposure in scaffolders during refurbishment construction activity--an observational study

The toxic effects of lead have been known for centuries. Occupational exposure to this chemical hazard has also been well documented in relation to various industry groups, including construction, where workers are recognized as being significantly exposed during refurbishment work, in particular through inhalation and ingestion of lead fumes and dust. It is easy to see how so-called 'burners', 'cutters' and 'blasters'--workers directly involved in removing old lead paint--may become exposed; the influence of personal hygiene, smoking, eating/drinking and nail biting has also been documented in the literature. We now report on one group, the scaffolders, not previously considered to be at risk. Although not directly involved in the paint removal, anecdotal and personal experience of the authors indicate that these workers, who erect and later dismantle access structures during the renovation of previously lead-painted surfaces, may take up significant amounts of lead, mainly by ingestion, to raise their personal blood lead levels (and body burden) in line with recognized 'lead workers'. Exposures of this magnitude would also bring the scaffolders involved in such refurbishment work under the Control of Lead at Work Regulations 1998. The authors make various recommendations on measures to minimize and control exposure of scaffolders to lead.