General Points to Note
The use of lead in the UK is currently not specifically covered by the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations (2002), the Manual Handling Regulations (1992) or the Construction Design and Management (CDM) Regulations 1994, but these must be taken into account when working with lead.
Reference should also be made to the Control of Lead at Work (third edition) Control of Lead at Work Regulations 2002 Approved Code of Practice and Guidance (ISBN 0-7176-2565-6)
Duties - Employers and employees alike are responsible for protecting themselves and other persons on premises where leadwork is being carried out or who are likely to be exposed to lead from that work.
Assessment of Risk Of Exposure - If there is a risk of exposure to lead in a form which may be inhaled or ingested, the level of risk must be assessed and the findings properly recorded. Correct working practices and proper controls should be established and appropriate protective and safety equipment provided before the work proceeds
Control Measures - The employer and employee must ensure, as far as is reasonably practical, that all measures are taken to restrict and control exposure.
Protective Clothing - Each employee should be provided with and should wear adequate protective clothing.
Respiratory Equipment and Ventilation - Suitable masks or respiratory equipment must be provided and used where there is a risk of exposure to airborne lead dust or fumes.
Washing Facilities and Canteen Areas - Adequate washing and changing facilities should be provided. Washing of the hands is essential before eating, drinking or smoking and before leaving the workplace. Food and drink should not be consumed in any area where leadwork is being carried out. Washing of hands and face and changing of contaminated clothes should take place before entering canteen areas.
Spread of Contamination - Both employer and employee should take such steps as are reasonably practicable to prevent lead contamination from spreading beyond the workplace or storage area.
Waste and Scrap - Old lead sheet being replaced should be removed with care. Scrap and dust should be taken to approved collectors to facilitate recycling. Vehicles transporting scrap and dust should be thoroughly washed and cleaned after use.
Lifting Lead - Lead is heavy. Proper lifting equipment and additional staff should be available and always used to ensure the safety of operatives lifting and moving lead sheet.
Medical Surveillance - The blood lead level of all operatives working with lead should be monitored at regular intervals.
Maintenance Records - It is the duty of the employer to provide and maintain adequate records which show details of risk assessments, information and training provided, precautionary measures taken, medical surveillance and ventilation and respiratory equipment provided.
Further Information Available from the Health and Safety Executive and the Lead Sheet Association