Lead Sampling in a Bullet Recovery Room

Abstract

This study implemented standard sampling protocols to evaluate lead contamination present in the bullet recovery room of the South Carolina State Law Enforcement Division's Firearms Department. Air sampling, skin wipes, and surface swabs were used to test for lead concentrations in the atmosphere, on the skin of personnel discharging weapons, and on walls and other surfaces present in the room, respectively. All samples were analyzed by standard National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health methods using an inductively coupled plasma mass spectrophotometer. The atmospheric lead concentration, 0.0041 ± 0.000016 mg/m³, was well below the threshold limit value, but was higher than expected considering the presence of a dedicated exhaust system in the bullet recovery tank. Furthermore, high skin contamination levels were reported for personnel whose only exposure to the room was incidental contact with the walls. A survey of the room surfaces found mean lead concentrations to be 42.2 ± 0.42 mg/m². This study indicated that the concentration of lead present on the surfaces of the bullet recovery room presented a potential health hazard to personnel, and a thorough cleaning of the room using surfactant solution was recommended.