Recordkeeping

It is important for employees to be aware of the lead hazards they face and the precautions their employers have taken to help prevent lead exposure. Employers are required to keep detailed records and make them available to all affected employees. These records include:

• The results of any lead exposure monitoring, a description of the methods used and possible limitations, and a list of exposed employees
• Any objective data that exempts an employer from conducting initial monitoring
• Medical surveillance records, including medical complaints, examinations, or biological monitoring related to lead exposure (these will be detailed further in a later section)
• Records for any employees who have been medically removed due to overexposure (these will also be detailed later)

Employees are also allowed to observe any lead monitoring, as long as that observation does not interfere with the monitoring itself. Those who choose to observe the monitoring must wear protective clothing and equipment as necessary. Observers are entitled to an explanation of the monitoring procedures. They may observe all steps involved, and may record the results as well. This is a safeguard to make sure that employers monitor properly, and to be sure that workers understand the environment they must work in.

To learn more about Construction Lead Exposure visit our Cal/OSHA Construction Lead Exposure Online Training web page.