Characterization of lead in US workplaces using data from OSHA's integrated management information system
Scott A Henn1, Aaron L Sussell, Jia Li
1Division of Surveillance, Hazard Evaluations, and Field Studies (DSHEFS), National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), Cincinnati, Ohio 45226, USA. SHenn@cdc.gov
American Journal of Industrial Medicine
|January 20, 2011
Summary
Workplace lead hazards are most prevalent in the construction industry and in the northern and northeastern US. Data from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health
- Environmental Health
- Industrial Hygiene
Background:
- Workplace lead exposure remains a significant occupational hazard.
- The Occupational Safety and Health Administration's Integrated Management Information System (IMIS) database is a key resource for US workplace sampling results.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze lead sampling data from the IMIS database to identify high-risk sectors and geographical areas.
- To understand factors associated with exceeding the Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) for lead.
Main Methods:
- Extracted personal airborne lead sampling results from IMIS (1979-2008).
- Conducted descriptive analyses, geographical mapping, and regression modeling.
- Identified factors associated with lead sample results exceeding the PEL.
Main Results:
- Manufacturing accounted for 79% of lead samples.
- Construction sector showed the highest lead concentrations (median 0.03 mg/m³).
- Several factors, including NORA sector, year, OSHA region, and worksite characteristics, were linked to PEL exceedances.
Conclusions:
- Construction industry exhibits higher lead concentrations compared to other sectors.
- Lead hazards are most common in the northern and northeastern United States.
- IMIS data serves as a valuable tool for surveillance and targeted prevention of lead hazards.
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