Req 1h — Hygiene on the Range

Lead is the primary health hazard on a shooting range. When a cartridge fires, lead from the bullet and the primer vaporizes and becomes airborne fine particles that settle on skin, clothing, and surfaces. Lead is a cumulative toxin—it builds up in the body over time, and it is especially harmful to children and adolescents. Following good hygiene on the range is not just courtesy; it protects your long-term health.

Before Shooting

• Tie back long hair and wear close-fitting clothing to reduce surface area for particles to cling to.
• Avoid eating or drinking on the range—lead particles on hands go directly into your mouth.

While Shooting

• Keep your mouth closed during firing, especially on indoor ranges where ventilation carries particles toward shooters.
• Avoid touching your face with your hands after handling ammunition or a firearm.
• Do not handle food, drinks, or lip balm while on an active range.

After Shooting

• Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water, paying attention to under fingernails, before eating, drinking, or touching your face. This is the single most important step.
• Change clothes after an extended range session if possible, especially if you will be around young children at home.
• Shower and wash your hair after significant range time.
• Do not re-wear range clothing around infants or young children without washing it first—they are more vulnerable to lead exposure.

Indoor vs. Outdoor Ranges

Indoor ranges have higher concentrations of airborne lead because ventilation is limited. Outdoor ranges with good air movement are lower-risk but still require hand washing afterward.

Air Rifle Exception

If you are doing Option B (air rifle), lead exposure is much lower because air rifles use lower-velocity projectiles and do not have primer-based propellant. However, lead pellets still leave residue on your hands, so the same post-shooting hand washing rules apply.

For Your Counselor

Be prepared to explain the source of lead exposure on a range (primer and bullet vapor), when it is most critical to wash hands, and why food and drinks do not belong at the firing line.