The law

In the UK, lead hazards in the workplace are covered by the Control of Lead at Work (CLAW) Regulations 2002. A basic summary is explained in What must a museum do?

Work with lead that may involve greater risk of exposure can include object conservation, restoration and engineering. In this situation, the law requires employers to take additional steps if there is ‘significant’ exposure to lead (meaning exposure exceeds half the occupational exposure level), if there is a substantial risk of lead ingestion, or if lead in a form that can be absorbed through the skin is being used.