* the potential for developing lung cancer as a result of exposure;

* the importance of avoiding skin contact;

* the engineering controls the employer is using to reduce worker exposures to beryllium;

* specific work practices that can be used to reduce exposure to beryllium;

* the use of appropriate protective equipment, including the use of respirators;

* the results of any industrial hygiene sampling for levels of beryllium in the workplace; and

* a copy of this Hazard Information Bulletin.

6. Health screening methods for beryllium sensitization and chronic beryllium disease

To the Employer:

Employers should consider sending beryllium-exposed employees to a physician or other licensed health care professional to be evaluated for beryllium sensitization or the presence of CBD. The screening examination for CBD usually begins with a chest x-ray and a blood test for beryllium sensitization, namely, the BeLPT, plus any further evaluation considered appropriate by the health care professional. The blood test can detect an adverse health response to beryllium exposure earlier than breathing tests or chest x-rays can. The BeLPT is not routinely done in most medical laboratories; however, the health care professional may order this test from any laboratory that has overnight courier service to one of the Medical Research Centers listed below. If a worker is sent to a health care professional for health screening, a copy of this Hazard Information Bulletin should accompany the employee.

To the Employee:

If you work in a place where beryllium is used and have developed any of the symptoms listed below, you should inform your health care professional of your past beryllium exposure, or seek information from a health care professional who specializes in occupational lung diseases to determine whether you may have developed CBD:

* unexplained cough,

* shortness of breath,

* fatigue,