OSHA is aware of CBD cases that have occurred among family members of beryllium-exposed workers. To reduce "carry-home" exposures, employers should provide showers, clean work clothes, and clean areas for storing street clothes. Protective clothing should be provided to employees who work in areas where beryllium-containing powders are used and where there is a potential for spills. In addition, employers should ensure that employees:

* change into work uniforms before entering their work area;

* place their uniforms in a labeled bin with a cover at the end of the work shift;

* shower and change into street clothes prior to leaving the facility;

* wash their face, hands, and forearms before eating, smoking, or applying cosmetics;

* keep their work clothes as clean as possible during the workshift;

* wipe off their shoes before leaving the work area; and

* do not wear their work uniform (including their work shoes) outside of the facility.

4. Respiratory Protection

Recent data suggest that exposures to beryllium even at levels below the 2 micrograms/m3 PEL may have caused CBD in some workers. Therefore, employers should consider providing their beryllium-exposed workers with air-purifying respirators equipped with 100-series filters (either N-, P-, or R-type) or, where appropriate, powered air-purifying respirators equipped with HEPA filters, particularly in areas where material containing beryllium can become airborne.

5. Training

Employers should give employees exposed to beryllium training and information about the following items:

* material safety data sheets (MSDSs) for beryllium;

* the fatal lung disease that may occur as a result of exposure;

* the availability of the BeLPT blood test to determine whether an exposed worker has become sensitized to beryllium;