Pilot testing two take-home exposure prevention educational sessions with construction workers and their families

ABSTRACT

Introduction 'Take-home exposures' occur when workers accidentally bring home contaminants from work. In construction, job responsibilities may expose workers to lead and other metals, which extend to their household members via the take-home pathway. It is crucial that construction workers are aware of the take-home pathway and learn about exposure prevention strategies. Objectives This work is part of the RECLEAN Pilot Study, which aims to reduce lead in the homes of construction workers through educational and environmental interventions. Methods We developed and evaluated a suite of educational materials to train construction workers and their families on strategies to prevent take-home lead exposure. Each of the two sessions targets a specific audience, with one tailored to construction workers and the other to workers' family or household members. The sessions were originally developed to take place in person but given the COVID-19 pandemic we adapted them for online delivery as well. Results Like traditional occupational health and safety trainings, the construction worker sessions present workers with best practices to prevent take-home lead and open discussion for how such practices may fit into their own routine after work. Alternatively, the family session is designed to engage household members in discussion through a process derived from motivational interviewing. The materials for both sessions include an introduction, behavior scoring sheet, behavior wheel, and action plan. Facilitators and participants discuss strategies to prevent take-home lead, identify barriers participants (and their coworkers or families) experience when trying to change their behaviors, and ultimately prioritize a prevention goal. Conclusion The materials for both educational sessions were developed based on current literature on take-home lead and behavioral theories and in partnership with lead and construction experts from multiple organizations. Using feedback from participants, project stakeholders, and session facilitators, we evaluate the feasibility and efficacy of these educational interventions.