Lead in and around the Home

1. Lead in and around the Home

2. Lead Poisoning • Lead is dangerous because it is widely used and lasts forever in the environment. • You can reduce exposure to lead, but you cannot avoid it. • Lead poisoning is often considered as the number one environmental problem in the United States.

3. Children and Lead • Children age 6 and younger are most likely to be affected because of hand-to-mouth activities. • Lead-based paint is the most common source of high exposure in children. • One in nine American children have elevated lead blood levels.

4. Health Problems from Lead • In children: • Learning and behavioral problems • Slow mental development • Nervous system damage

5. Health Problems from Lead • In adults: • High blood pressure • Reproductive system damage

6. Lead Sources • House paint from homes built before 1978. • Household dust created as paint ages or painted surfaces rub together. • Chipping, peeling, or flaking paint. • Lead pipes or solder. • Lead-contaminated soils.

7. Lead in Your Water • Potential sources: • Lead pipes that bring water into the home. • Lead pipe connectors. • Lead soldered joints in copper plumbing. • Brass faucets and pump components containing lead. • Soft or acidic water easily dissolves lead from pipes and fittings.

8. What can I do about lead in my water? • Have your water tested for lead. • Flush your plumbing system before use. • Test your water for pH and hardness. • Optimum pH level is 7.5 to 8.5. • Optimum hardness level is 80mg per liter. • Minimize effects by using cold tap water for cooking and drinking.

9. Lead Paint Dangers • Prior to 1978, paint with higher lead levels was used on the following if moisture exposure was great: • windows • doors • exterior walls • Exposure is greatest when paint is chipping, flaking, or is scraped or sanded.

10. Lead in Soil • Exhaust from vehicles using leaded gas has caused high lead levels in soil around homes in older neighborhoods. • This lead is found in the top 2-3 inches and is a problem when: • Children play outdoors on bare soil. • Soil is tracked into the house. • Eating leafy vegetables grown in infected soil.

11. Protect Your Family From Lead • Have your children’s blood tested for lead. • Have your water tested for lead. • Take precautions when remodeling.

12. Protect Your Family From Lead • Clean around windows and doors often. • Encourage children to wash hands after playing. • Wash bottles, pacifiers and toys regularly.