ABSTRACT
Airborne lead, in both particulate and vapor form, arising from the discharge of ammunition, can be a health hazard to those regularly exposed over a long period of time. People, such as firearms training instructors, are at risk as lead has a cumulative effect in the body, eventually leading to serious illness. Antimony and barium are also undesirable from a health viewpoint, but their levels in discharging residue are considerably lower than the lead level. Despite elaborate indoor range extraction and ventilation systems, which do much to reduce the risk, continuous exposure over the years is undesirable and many organizations monitor blood lead levels (and hearing) of staff involved.
