Recent medical findings indicate that lower blood lead levels (BLLs) in adults can result in adverse health effects including hypertension, cognitive dysfunction, and effects on renal function. These and other health effects (adverse female reproductive outcomes) are being identified in individuals with BLLs under 40 µg/dL. The lead standards for general industry and construction are based on lead toxicity information that is over 35 years old. OSHA lead standards allow for the return of the employee to former job status at a BLL < 40 µg/dL. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Council of State and Territorial Epidemiologists (CSTE), and California’s Medical Management recommends that BLLs among all adults be reduced to <10 µg/dL.

OSHA is exploring regulatory options to lower blood leads in affected workers. An Advanced Notice of Proposed Rulemaking would seek input from the public to help the Agency identify possible areas of the lead standards for revision to improve protection of workers in industries and occupations where preventable exposure to lead continues to occur.