> Unlike asbestos, which is primarily dangerous when disturbed and
> becomes airborne, lead oxidation and dust is the most dangerous form,
> especially for children.  Always use disposable latex gloves when
> handling lead or working around areas where lead has oxidized.
>
> DO NOT use a household vacuum to clean away the oxidation which may
> collect under the tubing.  Use disposable wet wipes and a HEPA vac,
> if available.  It is appropriate to wear a respirator mask.
>
> Lead must be disposed of in a manner which won't contaminate the
> soil or water supplies.

Oh, for heaven's sake.  Lead isn't _that_ poisonous if you don't eat
it.  There's lots of lead in the world, and it's quite stable in its
metallic form.  Lead salts are certainly poisonous, and that's why kids
get sick if they eat paint chips.  So don't eat paint chips.

Other than that, leave the tubing alone if it's okay, learn to do lead
wiping if it needs repair (it's an art that I've never mastered, but
it's possible to learn) and don't worry about it.  The EPA and other
government agencies have a zero-tolerance policy towards lead that can
be misinterpreted if applied to other activities.

* You can safely handle lead with your hands.

* You can breathe around it: it doesn't give off vapors.

* Matter of fact, you can swallow it: it'll go right through.

Mark Kinsler
http://www.frognet.net/~kinsler

P.S.: Asbestos isn't so dangerous, either.