Food for thought

[Labrador1]

John - I don't disagree with anything you said - and I too used to carry lead splitshot in my mouth - still find myself doing it sometimes just out of habit. I have often thought that the "anti lead" craze may be a bit of an overreaction. The only thing that got me really thinking about it was when my 3 year old started visiting the shop. I really don't know if there was any threat to her - but decided to go another route so that I no longer had to worry about it. It is just nice now when she visits I don't have to remember to wash my hands before giving her a hug. If you are careful with lead - and use the precautions you suggested - I'm sure it can be pleanty safe to use.

[ed morini]

I think you have to think safely about anything you use. Some of the paints I spray are water based but the ammonia dyers can give you a real headache. Although it takes quite a while for lead to build up in an adult to dangerous levels ,any time you melt (smelt) metals the fumes can be harmful. Some wood resins are harmful also. I have been woodworking since 1968 and have had no ill effects (I am knocking on wood now) but have always tried to make sure resonable safety precautions were made. I do unfortunately know of others that have not fared as well.

[Diamond Tackle]

Were on the same page Ryan, I know what you mean, I have a little nephew(Norbs),& no way im touching him with lead dust on my finger tips.
I thought I once read that indoor gun ranges were a very hazardous environment if lead bullets are stopped by one of those steel plates.
Not sure if it was accurate info,but it sounds right, if you make lead dust airborne,im sure it can be inhaled.

[Striperknight]

Originally Posted by Labrador1

John - I don't disagree with anything you said - and I too used to carry lead splitshot in my mouth - still find myself doing it sometimes just out of habit. I have often thought that the "anti lead" craze may be a bit of an overreaction. The only thing that got me really thinking about it was when my 3 year old started visiting the shop. I really don't know if there was any threat to her - but decided to go another route so that I no longer had to worry about it. It is just nice now when she visits I don't have to remember to wash my hands before giving her a hug. If you are careful with lead - and use the precautions you suggested - I'm sure it can be pleanty safe to use.

How do you protect your 3 year old from the Cedar dust that gets
on everything? Another hidden danger in our shops.

[Labrador1]

SK- you are certainly right about that too. Fortunately the area my daughter visits me in is fairly well sealed off to the area of my shop where my tools sit. It is a seperate room with an exterior door between the dusty area and the paint/assembly area. There are many issues like this when it comes to plug building. I was only pointing out the weight/lead issue because I was able to take one of the hazzards off my list.