Lead Hazards

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

An estimated 38 million homes in the United States contain lead-based paint.  Lead paint was manufactured and sold for residential use on interiors and exteriors throughout the United States until 1978.  This created the largest home-based environmental hazard facing children throughout the nation in homes big and small, urban and rural, rich and poor.

When the paint remains intact or encased behind paneling or siding it does not present an immediate hazard.  However, when lead-based paint begins flaking, chipping and peeling it creates a serious risk for exposure.

Lead Dust:

Small children are often poisoned by invisible lead dust that is released when paint is peeling, damaged or disturbed.  This can often be caused by the opening and closing of windows, doors that rub or when old homes have been remodeled unsafely. 

Lead dust is heavier than environmental dust, sticky, and may taste sweet to children and pets.  Frequent and thorough cleaning of high risk areas like floors, entryways, and windows is necessary to reduce lead hazards.

In addition to lead dust from paint, lead dust may also come from soil and airborne emissions, such as incinerators, smelters and other industries.