Lead Poisoning from Pumps?

This might be a completely stupid question, but on my journey to find a pump I checked out places such as Canadian Tire etc… They had pumps for things like Tire Pressure/Brake Bleeder types. When I was reading the back it said to ensure you wash your hands properly after use due to Lead being used in the pump. I currently use a LAP Cylinder and Pump (Harbor Freight Tools). It just occured to me that HFT pump is also used for Auto Brake Bleeding. Can anyone verify if the HFT pump is in-fact completely safe to use? When LAP shipped it to me, it just came on its own without any original packaging. I believe it would be safe since I don’t think LAP would use something dangerous, nor would many pumpers be using it if it was not.

Just for re-assurance, has anyone purchased the HFT pump from a Auto shop and read the packaging?

I would think it is more likely a warning that fluid being pumped might contain lead.

Or they are just covering themselves against claims for lead poisoning.

I wrapped my pump in a sock and made small holes for the tube and gauge. This keeps the cold brass from touching my leg when I pump nude. Not sure if it helps with any potential lead contact but at least its better than nothing.

I just received my HFT vacuum pump and have the operating instructions. There is the following warning: “The brass components of this product contain lead, a chemical known to the state of California to cause cancer and birth defects (or other reproductive harm). (California Health and Safety Code 25249, et seq)”

There is also lead in solder used to join copper water pipes in our homes so I would not be too concerned if you are only using air. There is also the following warning: Keep bystanders, children, and visitors away while operating the Brake Bleeder/Vacuum Pump. This I feel is a more important warning.

It rather sounds as if they are just protecting themselves, in case of someone complaning about lead poisoning, (if they got it from something else). Particularly if the State of California is targetting lead poisoning.

Nevertheless - Do take care and precautions.

If the brass contains lead, I think you are probably pretty safe. Wikipedia puts the lead content of brass at 2% or less.

http://en.wikip edia.org/wiki/B … ss#Lead_content

As petitfaun suggests, take care and precautions. For example, I would suggest that you do not lick or suck on your pump.

And I second dtwarren1942’s observation to keep bystanders, children and visitors away while operating the brake bleeder/vacuum pump - especially if you’re using it for PE.

(Incidentally, that reminds me of Adam’s warning to Eve when he first saw her - "Stand back, honey! I don’t know how big this thing is going to get!")