Lead-based paint is discovered during demolition of a 1960s building. Workers will be exposed to lead levels of 35 μg/m³ over an 8-hour period. What is required?
Correct Answer
B) Respiratory protection and protective clothing
At 35 μg/m³, which exceeds the OSHA action level of 30 μg/m³ but is below the PEL of 50 μg/m³, respiratory protection and protective clothing are required along with other protective measures.
Why This Is the Correct Answer
At 35 μg/m³, the lead exposure exceeds OSHA's action level of 30 μg/m³ but remains below the Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) of 50 μg/m³. When exposure is between the action level and PEL, OSHA requires respiratory protection and protective clothing to minimize worker exposure. This intermediate level of protection is appropriate for moderate lead exposure situations during construction activities.
Why the Other Options Are Wrong
Option A: No special precautions needed
Special precautions are definitely needed because 35 μg/m³ exceeds OSHA's action level of 30 μg/m³, which triggers mandatory protective measures for workers.
Option C: Work area isolation and medical surveillance
Work area isolation and medical surveillance are typically required when exposure levels reach or exceed the PEL of 50 μg/m³, which is higher than the 35 μg/m³ level in this scenario.
Option D: Full containment and certified abatement contractor
Full containment and certified abatement contractors are required for much higher exposure levels or when dealing with intact lead-based paint removal, not for this intermediate exposure level during demolition.
Memory Technique
Think '30-50 Rule': Above 30 = gear up (respiratory + clothing), Above 50 = lock down (isolation + medical surveillance)
Reference Hint
OSHA Construction Standard 29 CFR 1926.62 - Lead in Construction, Table 1 for exposure levels and required protective measures
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