Poisoning

Operations on a construction site can produce extremely fine dust particles invisible to the eye. These particles can clog the lungs and may also cause poisoning, depending on the material.

Lead paint, for example, can be a factor in older homes. About 87 percent of homes built before 1940 are likely to have at least some lead paint. This is also true of an estimated 24 percent of homes built between 1960 and 1978. Lead in the dust and debris can cause anemia and damage the brain and nervous system.