Case series of chronic occupational lead exposure in shooting ranges

Assessment of the Effectiveness of Ventilation Controls in Managing Airborne and Surface Lead Levels at a Newly Commissioned Indoor Shooting Range

Lead levels at a new indoor target shooting range were assessed using both personal and environmental air monitoring methods. Surface swabs were collected from representative locations throughout the range prior to, and at the conclusion of, shooting. Personal samples were compared against the current Australian Workplace Exposure Standards with all results exceeding statutory limits. Static environmental samples exceeded the Air National Environmental Protection Measures (NEPM) air quality standard. Surface swabs showed significant increases from pre- to post-shooting with levels exceeding recommended limits. The performance of the mechanical ventilation system was also assessed and airflow levels were below the required rate at all test locations when compared against the values recommended by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). Users of the indoor shooting range are at risk of potential exposure to hazardous levels of lead. It was recommended the ventilation system be reviewed by a suitably qualified ventilation engineer to ensure it is operating within the required parameters and able to transport generated lead contaminant away from the shooters breathing zone. A thorough cleaning regime should be implemented by the club to minimise surface lead loadings throughout the facility.