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Q: What is lead? What are the sources of
lead?
A: It's a metallic element that is widely dispersed in the
environment. It was used in house paint until 1978, when it was banned. It was
also widely used in gasoline, but has since been removed. Near major traffic
corridors, soils may be contaminated from the long-term use of leaded gas.
Also, water is a potential source of lead. This is usually from lead in solder,
fixtures and piping in the home. There is no lead in a "lead" pencil!
Q: Why should I be concerned about
lead?
A: Young children (up to about six years old) are
especially at risk of ingesting lead contaminated dust or paint chips. Small
amounts of lead dust, consumed regularly, can cause delayed development,
reading and learning problems, lowered IQ, hyperactivity and discipline
problems. Larger doses can cause high blood pressure, anemia, and kidney and
reproductive disorders in both kids and adults. Lead accumulates in the body
and its effects are irreversible.
Q: How do I know if my children have been
exposed to lead?
A: If you live in an older home, your children
may be at high risk. All children up to age six should be tested for lead in
their blood. Ask your public health department about lead testing programs for
children.
Q: How do I know if my home has significant
concentrations of lead?
A: An estimated 57 million U.S. homes
have at least some lead paint. Older homes are at greater risk. Prior to 1950,
paint contained as much as 50 percent lead. Paint in good condition poses
little risk. Paint that is peeling or on deteriorating surfaces is especially
risky. Dust created from remodeling an older home can also be a source of lead.
Do-it-yourself test kits are available at home centers, paint stores and ceramic supply stores. Their sensitivity is limited though. Also, it may be difficult to get accurate readings on surfaces with multiple levels of paint. For more accurate information, have a professional detection service conduct a lead-based paint risk assessment.
Q: Should I be concerned if my home has
lead?
A: Yes, especially if you have young children in your
home. But, it's important to distinguish between the presence of lead paint and
a lead paint hazard. Lead paint in good condition may not pose a hazard until
sometime in the future--say, if you plan to scrape the paint or remodel. Then
paint dust will pose a hazard.
Q: If lead is detected in my home, what should
I do?
A: The simplest way to control exposure to lead is through
frequent damp mopping to control dust. (Vacuuming can disperse dust particles
back into the room.) Pick up loose paint chips with duct tape. Frequent washing
of your child's hands and toys will also reduce exposure. It's important not to
sand or scrape leaded paint, or do any other activities that generate dust.
Eliminating lead dust hazards is complex and should only be done by
professionals. Measures include replacing windows and moldings, paint removal
and covering surfaces with materials such as wallboard. Children should be
removed until the site "clears" inspection.
Q: Where can I get more information about
lead?
A: Contact the National Lead Information Center
(1-800-424-5323) for answers to specific questions, or its hotline
(1-800-532-3394) for print materials, including an Environmental Protection
Agency booklet titled "Protect Your Family from Lead in Your Home." Other
information sources include your local Extension Office or your state
department of health. Take action now.
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