A construction worker is exposed to an 8-hour time-weighted average of lead at 45 μg/m³. According to Cal/OSHA lead standards, what medical surveillance is required?
Correct Answer
D) Annual medical examination
At 45 μg/m³ (above the action level of 30 μg/m³ but below PEL of 50 μg/m³), annual medical surveillance is required.
Why This Is the Correct Answer
45 μg/m³ is above the action level (30 μg/m³) but below the PEL (50 μg/m³). In this zone, Cal/OSHA requires annual medical examinations. The surveillance is triggered by exceeding the action level, and the annual frequency applies when the worker is not yet at the PEL.
Why the Other Options Are Wrong
Option A: No medical surveillance required
No surveillance is only appropriate when exposure is below the action level of 30 μg/m³. At 45 μg/m³, the action level has been exceeded, so medical surveillance is mandatory.
Option B: Bi-annual medical examination
Bi-annual (twice yearly) is not a standard Cal/OSHA lead surveillance interval. This is a distractor that doesn't correspond to any regulatory requirement.
Option C: Medical examination every 6 months for first two years, then annually
The 'every 6 months for first two years, then annually' schedule applies to workers whose blood lead levels exceed 40 μg/dL or who are exposed at or above the PEL (50 μg/m³). At 45 μg/m³ (below PEL), this more intensive schedule is not yet triggered.
Memory Technique
Three zones, three responses: Below 30 = Nothing. 30–49 = Annual exam. 50+ (PEL) = Every 6 months. Think of it as a traffic light: green (nothing), yellow (annual watch), red (intensive surveillance).
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