Housing...Inside and Out

January 22, 1999
LEAD - Sources and Impacts

Lead is 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 is no longer in the fuel. Lead can also be present in water. This is usually from lead in solder, fixtures and piping in the home. There is no lead in a lead pencil!

Young children up to the age of about six 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.

If you live in an older home, your children may be at high risk. Ask you public health department about lead testing for children.

An estimated 57 million homes in the U.S. 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 layers of paint. For more accurate information, have a professional detection service conduct a lead-based paint risk assessment.

If lead is detected in you home, the simplest way to control exposure to lead is through frequent damp mopping to control dust. If you vacuum, you will 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 is important not to sand or scrape leaded paint or do any other activities that generate dust.

Eliminating lead dust hazard 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 from the site until the area "clears" inspection.


Written by Dr. Francis Graham (Retired)

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