In a recent EPA RRP Class a contractor spoke about how he unknowingly lead poisoned his kids and himself. I was the instuctor for this class.

I asked if anyone in the class had experienced or knew someone who was a victim of lead poisoning. One contractor raised his hand and said "Yea me. I poisoned my three kids and myself. I took the lead dust home on my clothing, it was in my truck and on me."

This contractor was at the training to learn how to use lead safe practices. His motivation to learn how to protect himself was obvious. To see his eyes as he shared his story with the rest of us in the room was surreal. Everyone in the room listened intently as he described the situation and the medical treatments that his children are going through. Thank God it was caught early when something could be done for his kids. He was treated as well.

I hear so many contractors say this will never happen to me or my family and I hope they are right. I hear all the angst and apathy toward the EPA and the regulation everyday. The verbs that fly never cease to amaze me. Contractors are looking for any loop holes in the law to not comply.  Yet in the midst of all this rebuke for the regulation I learn of new lead poisoning cases every week either in class of from someone who calls for help.

One thing that will always get me is to hear about kids or adults that get lead poisoned when it is totally avoidable. I think it stinks that in this day and age this is still happening to kids. Obviously there is still much work to be done.

I thanked this young man for coming forward and sharing his story with the rest of us. He told me he hopes it will make a difference for other contractors and their children.

A few men in the room told me during the day that they are going to look at their work differently and they are going to get tested for lead. I asked them what made them reach that decision?

One contractor said "My kids!".

mark the coach