Lead in Pipe Dope Can Contaminate Workers’ Homes
Posted by proforma on July 24, 2011
Pipe dope, found at many oilfield sites, is a threading compound that often contains high amounts of lead. Not only is the lead dangerous for oilfield workers; they also transport the lead home where children can be exposed.
Pipe dope is difficult to remove from clothing and can be transferred to the employee’s car or home. According to this article in EHS, using oil-resistant gloves can help avoid contamination, as will washing your hands, showering at the workplace and changing clothes after handling pipe dope. Work clothes should not be washed with the family’s laundry.
Better yet, lead free pipe dope should be substituted.
Tags:lead, oilfield worker, PPE, protection
Filed Under: Workplace Safety
