PRECAUTIONS ON THE FIRING RANGE
Precautions can be taken both on and off the range to protect shooters, instructors, and their families from the effects of lead poisoning. Administrative controls and good hygiene are two necessary tools. In addition, all shooters and instructors should practice the following "do's and don'ts" of range safety.
Don't smoke on the range: Smoking any type of tobacco products on the range should be prohibited to prevent acceleration of inhaled lead into the blood stream and ingestion of lead transferred from hands to the cigarette, cigar, etc.
Don't eat on the range: Lead dust on hands and face can be ingested through contact with food. Airborne lead expelled from the weapon can also contaminate food.
Don't collect fired brass in hats: Many shooters use their hats to collect spent brass; this contaminates the
hat with lead particles. When the hat is placed back on the head, the lead is deposited into the hair and absorbed into the skin. Providing boxes for the brass prevents this practice.
Do be aware that face, arms, and hands are covered with lead particles: Shooters and instructors should wash thoroughly with cold water and plenty of soap. Cold water is preferred because warm water enhances the absorption of lead by opening the pores of the skin. If no water is available, shooters should consider carrying a box of wet handwipes or a bottle of cool water and a washcloth for this purpose.
Do be aware that hair and clothes are still contaminated: Shooters and firearms instructors should wear an outer garment, such as a jumpsuit or coveralls, or change clothes before going home. Contaminated clothes should not be cleaned by blowing, shaking, or other means that dispense lead into the air. To prevent cross-contamination, range clothes should be washed separately from the family's regular laundry. Families with infants should be particularly careful, since infants are most vulnerable to lead contamination. Changing to clean clothing before leaving the range prevents recontamination of the hands and any contamination of the family vehicle.
Do change shoes before entering residence: Shoes can also transport lead into the home. Shoes should be left at the door to prevent tracking lead onto floors and carpets. As an alternative, disposable shoe coverlets can be used while firing and cleaning, then discarded when leaving the range. Ordinary vacuuming does not remove lead from the home, but redistributes it by blowing it into the air to be inhaled and/or resettled onto the carpet.
Do avoid physical contact with family members until after a shower, shampoo, and change of clothes: Lead can be transferred by casual contact. Family and friends should not be hugged or kissed until after a shower and a change of clothes. Any physical contact should be avoided while the shooter is still in range clothing.
