Lead exposure in a developmentally disabled workforce

Over-exposure to lead was identified among developmentally disabled workers engage in furniture refinishing at two separate sites. The index case was identified at the first site by a public health nurse assigned to provide care to some of the workers. Referral to a regional occupational health clinic initiated an exposure assessment and medical consultation at both work sites. Blood lead levels (BLLs) among sanders and helpers at site A averaged 60 micrograms per deciliter of blood (mcg/dl). At site B, BLLs were lower, but 6 individuals had BLLs greater than mcg/dl. Hand sanding of chemically stripped wood previously coated with lead-based paint was determined to be the exposure source. These incidents document potential lead overexposure in an underecognized setting. They also emphasize the importance of incorporating a workplace health risk assessment in the process of placing and protecting the developmentally disabled on the job.