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Lead Poisoning: Still a Concern for Indoor and Outdoor Ranges

NCJ Number
180674
Journal
Law and Order Volume: 48 Issue: 1 Dated: January 2000 Pages: 62-66
Author(s)
Chuck Klein
Date Published
2000
Length
5 pages
Annotation
This article attempts to make officers, firearms instructors, and administrators aware of the possibility of lead poisoning and how to protect against toxic lead contamination.
Abstract
Range instructors are exposed to greater amounts of toxic pollutants than ever before due mostly to increased line time and quantities of rounds fired. The most dangerous of these are the lead compounds sprayed into the air with the firing of the primer. When the burning powder sears the base of the lead projectile, it causes lead gases to be expelled with the powder residue. This compounded lead, along with the vaporized lead and lead styphnate from the discharge of the primer, poses the greatest danger to persons on the shooting line. The article discusses 14 symptoms of lead poisoning and diseases/conditions which may result, for both children and adults. The article also discusses sources of lead poisoning, preventive measures, and range rules and procedures. Bibliography