About the Occupational Lead Poisoning Prevention Program (OLPPP)

Background

Lead poisoning continues to be a significant problem in the U.S. and elsewhere. While lead poisoning does occur in adults outside the workplace, most adults are exposed to lead on the job. Despite a decrease in blood lead levels in the general population, thousands of men and women in the U.S. still work under conditions that can cause blood lead levels high enough to harm their health.

Legislation

OLPPP is a part of the Occupational Health Branch of the California Department of Public Health and was established by legislation in 1991 to provide services to prevent and reduce lead poisoning in California workplaces, including tracking blood lead levels in adults; investigating work- related lead poisoning cases; and providing information and technical assistance to employers, workers, physicians, and others. OLPPP is supported by fees paid by employers in industries where lead is used, altered, or disturbed.

Mission

OLPPP is dedicated to improving the health of lead-exposed workers in California's lead industries through public health prevention activities. In accomplishing this mission, we work together with employers, workers, unions, industry associations, health professionals, community-based advocacy groups, and the public.

Program Activities

• Track blood lead levels in CA workers

• Provide information, training, & technical assistance

• Investigate worker & take-home lead poisoning

• Make prevention recommendations