NIOSH releases tips on reducing exposures at indoor firing ranges

NIOSH recently published recommendations (.pdf file) for reducing exposure to lead and noise at indoor firing ranges. According to the Bureau of Justice, more than 1 million federal, state and local law enforcement officers work in the United States, and are required to train at indoor firing ranges.

NIOSH recommends workers take the following safety precautions:

• Take training and participate in health monitoring programs
• Use personal protective equipment
• Practice good hygiene
• Report symptoms to employer and get help when needed

Employers should:

• Provide workers with information on hazards
• Implement effective engineering and administrative controls
• Provide PPE
• Review OSHA requirements for lead (1910.1025) and noise (1910.95)