Lead

Old plumbing with lead paint on it

Lead is a metal commonly used in many industries, including construction, mining, and manufacturing. People working near products or materials that contain lead can unknowingly swallow or breathe in harmful amounts of lead dust or fumes. Lead can also absorb through your skin. Exposures to lead can cause health problems. Employers, safety and health professionals, and workers can take steps to keep workers, their families and other household members safe from lead exposure.