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Q: Can dust cause occupational asthma?
A: Dust from various sources including concrete, rock and many solvents and chemicals can cause asthma in susceptible individuals, worsened by smoking. top
Q: Do I need to do any testing before giving my employees respirators, breathing masks or dust masks?
A: Under OSHA regulations, all employees who will be wearing respiratory protection must have a medical evaluation and a fit test, to assure safe and proper mask function. top
Q: What are the symptoms of lead poisoning?
A: Lead buildup in the body can cause many symptoms including high blood pressure, abdominal pain, infertility, headaches, nausea, memory loss, reduced cognitive function, abnormal bone x-rays and more. top
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Who is at risk for workplace or occupational lead poisoning?
A: Anyone exposed to lead paint, vapor or lead containing materials. This includes ironworkers, painters, smelters, welders, steelworkers, roofers and others.
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Q: How can workplace lead poisoning be avoided?
A: Each workplace needs to be set up to minimize lead exposure and each employee requires training on hygiene and personal protective practices, including gloves, coveralls and respirators. top
Q: How are firefighters evaluated for safe use of their equipment and Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA)?
A: Each firefighter is evaluated with a detailed health history questionnaire, a medical
exam, lung and heart evaluation and possible stress testing to make sure that they are fit
for the high physiological demand of firefighting. top
Q: If I work with waste water or other biologic material, what protection do I need?
A: Although each exposure needs to be evaluated individually, most exposed employees require Hepatitis B vaccination and immunity checks based on the OSHA Bloodborne Pathogens Standard.
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Q: Can a driver operate a large vehicle while taking prescription medicine?
A: Although most prescription medicines do not pose a problem, there are clear guidelines in the Federal Register (Part 391) as to which medicines are disqualifiers for commercial drivers (insulin, methadone, tranquilizers, etc).
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Q: Should I be testing my workers for hearing loss?
A: Based on the OSHA Noise Standard, if employees are exposed to loud noise on a regular basis they require a comprehensive hearing conservation program.
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