Lead Poisoning a Health Risk at Gun Ranges

At Alexander's Indoor Gun Range in Inkster, Mich., Mike Hoban was recently diagnosed with lead poisoning, possibly a result of his 16 years of working as a safety instructor at the range. His blood levels for lead were nearly 20 times the amount considered safe.

Today, Hoban suffers from stomach cramps, uncontrollable shaking of his hands, and piercing headaches. "I dedicate my life to safety, and the gun range probably will end my life sooner," said Hoban, 40.

The problem stems from lead bullets. When a bullet hits the metal trap or wall in a range, it creates lead dust that can fall and collect on clothing and the body. It also may be inhaled and travel through the bloodstream before accumulating in soft tissue and bones.

Concern over the health dangers of gun ranges is growing nationwide. As a result, many states are investigating gun ranges, clubs, and shops for lead.

In Michigan, the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) said the state has launched 10 investigations since 1997 in response to individual health complaints. State health officials have found high lead levels at several sites because of poor ventilation and other factors.

In addition, OSHA has investigated more than 10 sites nationally because of lead concerns. A report released last year by the Violence Policy Center said that the 4,000 gun ranges throughout the country poison thousands of children and adults each year.

"This is a public-health problem, not a gun-control issue," said Tom Diaz of the Violence Policy Center. "The problem is you can take lead home to your kids. Nobody deserves to get this."

As a result of the growing concern, many bullet manufacturers have begun to make bullets out of iron.