How Air Quality Changes EVERYTHING About a Shooting Range

By Ready to Fire News Last updated Jun 28, 2019

Have you ever wondered about the air quality in the local shooting range you go to?

Think about the amount of lead particles that are released in the air every time a gun is fired. There are also other chemicals that are released into the air around you when a firearm is used. In an indoor gun range that’s a constant amount of micro particle debris that is entering the air on a constant basis. Every time you take a breath, you are ingesting those harmful particles. If you go to the firing range on a regular basis, that can quickly become an issue you don’t even realize is a problem until health struggles show up.

Why Air Quality Matters

The dangers of bad air quality in a firing range can over time contribute to certain health issues, including respiratory problems, organ damage, and even potentially may cause certain types of cancers. When you are exposed to even small amounts of lead there is a chance that you could get lead poisoning. This can lead to fatigue, stomach problems, high blood pressure, and even some memory loss.

So, this is a very serious issue to consider. People with compromised immune systems or respiratory problems, like asthma or COPD, are even more likely to experience problems with air quality.

Make Sure Your Firing Range Has Top Quality Air Filters

Reputable firing ranges know and understand the damaging effects of poor air quality. Don’t be afraid to ask the owners questions if you have concerns.

For example, here is a shooting range that takes pride in making sure their air quality is top-notch and safe for their customers. The Lotus Gunworks of South Florida is located in Jensen Beach. They have a ventilation system that is modern and supremely efficient. The way that it works is by using an “energy recovery system.”

Developed by a company called Carey’s Air, it allows the indoor air to be turned over every 80 seconds, so new air is constantly being pumped into the range stalls. The old air is filtered right out. You can easily smell and feel the difference when you are in their location. There isn’t any burnt scent to the air that can indicate poor air quality might be an issue.

The National Institute For Occupational Health and Safety Has Regulations

One of the government agencies responsible for health and safety inside a firing range is the National Institute for Occupational Health and Safety (NIOSH). They have a set of design specs for the air quality in an indoor firing range. One of those is a HEPA filter that collects at least 99.97 percent of hazardous materials in microparticle size. That’s the tiny lead particles and other chemical dust being constantly collected. Plus, they also have certain regulations on the exhaust system, positioning of the firing line, and using a computer monitoring system. All of these factors will work together to create a safer shooting environment.