OSHA 10-Hour Construction ReviewHealth Hazards in ConstructionMedium
A construction crew is working in an area with potential lead-based paint hazards. An employee is observed dry scraping paint without proper respiratory protection. Which of the following is the most immediate and significant health risk associated with this activity?
- ANoise-induced hearing loss
- BAcute lead poisoning
- CSilicosis
- DAsbestosis
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Acute lead poisoning
Dry scraping lead-based paint creates significant airborne lead dust, leading to acute lead poisoning if inhaled without proper respiratory protection. Lead poisoning can cause immediate and severe health effects.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Noise-induced hearing loss is caused by excessive noise exposure, unrelated to paint scraping hazards.
- C. Silicosis is caused by inhaling crystalline silica dust, not lead paint.
- D. Asbestosis is caused by inhaling asbestos fibers, not lead paint.
Acute Lead Poisoning
Acute lead poisoning results from short-term exposure to high levels of lead, causing symptoms such as abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and central nervous system effects.
- Rapid onset of symptoms.
- High exposure over a short period.
- Can be caused by inhaling lead dust.
Memory trick: Lead is Bad: Blood, Brain, Bones, Belly.