THE EFFECTS OF HEAVY METALS

We all know lead exposure is hazardous to your health. It's why lead has been banned from gasoline, paint, pipes and other products.

Lead exposure has been linked to:

• Nervous system disorders
• High blood pressure
• Heart disease
• Kidney disease
• Reduced fertility

 

According to the CDC, in 2009, approximately 95% of all cases of elevated blood lead levels among adults in the United States were work-related.

OTHER HEAVY METALS, TOO

Gradient research also found hazardous levels of other heavy metals in laundered shop towels, including beryllium, cadium, cobalt, and copper.

• BERYLLIUM can cause sensitization, lung and skin disease in a significant percentage of exposed workers.***

• CADMIUM and CADMIUM compounds are known to cause cancer as well as kidney, bone and lung cancer.**

• COBALT exposure at high levels can result in lung and heart effects, dermatitis and liver and kidney effects.**

• COPPER when orally ingested may cause nausea, vomiting/diarrhea, liver damage, kidney damage or death.**

HOW YOU CAN BE EXPOSED

Heavy metal residue on shop towels can get onto worker hands, then into the mouth and be swallowed.