Development and evaluation of a new identification and decontamination system for removing toxic elements especially lead.
Authors
Boeniger-M; Esswein-E; Ashley-K
Source
Occupational and Environmental Exposures of Skin to Chemicals, Stockholm, June 12 -15, 2005. Morgantown, WV: National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, 2005 Jun; :1-2
Abstract
NIOSH Health Hazard Evaluations and other reports from the literature document that risks for ingestion of toxic elements via hand-to-mouth and hand-to-food transfer can be a significant occupational health problem that is unfortunately under recognized. A colorimetric wipe method has been developed that can be used both qualitatively and quantitatively to assess lead contamination of skin (hands) and work surfaces. The method results in an immediate colorimetric response that has proven exceptionally useful for rapid screening and decision making for lead contamination on skin and surfaces. In developing the new method, it was discovered that common soap and water is not an effective means of removing lead and other metals from the skin. In response, a novel toxic metals decontamination system was developed. "Hands Off!" was invented to maximize toxic metals removal from the skin without the use of harsh or abrasive cleansers and designed to be an environmentally benign product.
Keywords
Skin-exposure; Skin-absorption; Absorption-rates; Occupational-hazards; Occupational-health; Lead-poisoning; Lead-dust; Lead-absorption; Decontamination; Detergents; Soap-products
Document Type
Conference/Symposia Proceedings
NIOSH Division
DSHEFS; DART; OD; WSO
Source Name
Occupational and Environmental Exposures of Skin to Chemicals, Stockholm, Sweden, June 12 -15, 2005
