Since I've started casting again I'm wondering what other's are doing / using for health and safety? My main concerns are the inhalation of lead fumes and other contaminants. My area is open and somewhat airy but looking for any new idea's.

If you are getting 'fumes' directly from the lead, you are casting way, way too hot! Your flux or something else may produce noxious fumes and odors, but the lead is no problem. Don't lick your fingers or rub your eyes. This from an old welder who did a lot of soldering and casting outside of work.

Lead, per se, is not a volatile material.  What IS bad is dust from oxides of lead. I scoop dross from the pot and deposit it in a handy large tin can, the contents of which can occasionally be disposed of.

Some years ago, I had occasion to have "lead-in-blood" tests at my place of employment and it was always "undetectable".   At that time I was casting ~ 150-200# of bullets a year.  So I am satisfied that my practices are practical and safe.

The other hazard is getting splashed with molten metal.  I never wear gloves, as they inhibit firm handling of dipper and moulds, but ALWAYS wear eye protection and suitable clothing.  Never drop big chunks of cold lead into a pot of molten metal, as ANY moisture can cause a disastrous splash.  Water turning into steam expands in volume around 1000X.

CHRIS

I am sick to death of safety and health precautions. I've been shooting and casting all of my life with no ill effects. I started having a heavy metals check to my yearly blood sample 30 years ago and lead is never elevated.
I have never used a fan but I do cast by a window which is open in the summer but closed in the winter. I do try and remember not to wear sandals when casting , It's embarrassing hopping around like a wounded indian if you get the casting dribbles.

I use SPG to flux my lead when casting match grade bullets. The fumes smell so good I don't worry about it.

I'm 79 and was born and raised in SoCal (Orange Co). I was a mechanic and a hot rodder and even washed car parts at home and my 2 yrs in the Army, with leaded gas.

BUT, I have no ill effects or lead in my system. 

Oh ya, I was to young to remeber how much leaded paint I might have eaten but, I'm sure it tasted good

Yes, it's called arcing the brake shoes. No one used a mask to do, either. Don't forget the asbestos particles that you had to blow off of the drums and backing plates.

But, the woke have saved us and we now live to be 120

And I just retired from being a Ford service manager and shop foreman ave 1991 and 10 prior at a Goodyear store - so I've inhaled my share of brake dust and exhaust fumes - doc says I'm healthy as a 66 year old horse😂😂