Lead in soil

More on Lead Paint and Dust
Lead in water
Lead in soil
Other lead sources

When lead-based paint deteriorates on the outside of homes, paint chips and dust fall into the surrounding soil.  Construction projects like remodeling or demolition also release paint chips and dust into the soil.

Because leaded gasoline was sold into the 1980s, areas near busy roadways may also contain large amounts of lead dust from car exhaust.

Children playing outside in soil and sandboxes may be at risk if the soil or sand is contaminated with lead because of the risked transfer from hands and toys into the child's mouth.

To minimize the risk of exposure, cover sandboxes and outside play areas when not in use, cover bare soil with mulch or grass to help prevent direct contact and always wash children’s hands and toys when they come in from playing outdoors