National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week Part 2

In this episode of Meriden Health Talk, we are back to talk more about lead and some things you want to look for if you question whether you or your child would be exposed to lead.  

Housing – Any home that was built prior to 1978 has the potential to have lead.  If the house was built before 1950, it is almost certain to have lead.  We would look for any painted surface that appears to have multiple layers of paint, and if the paint appears to be chipped or cracked in any way. Old wooden windows, old doors, old stairs are common locations where lead can be found.

Jobs – Certain jobs would expose people to lead or lead dust.  Professions like painters, remodelers, contractors, construction worker would increase the chance of lead exposure.

Hobbies – Hobbies like pottery & ceramics, stained glass, fishing, or hobbies involving firearms all have the risk of exposing someone to lead.

Cosmetics – Certain cosmetics, including some used for ceremonial or religious purposes have been found to contain lead.

Home remedies and medications – Certain ethnic-specific traditions and ceremonies have had products used that contain lead.

Toys – There are times that the paint that has been used on the toy could possibly contain lead.  Please check the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission website (https://www.cpsc.gov/Recalls) for the most recent recalls.   

 

Staff for the Meriden Environmental Health Department has been trained to know what to look for when inspecting homes.  When applicable, we can test items to see if they come up positive for lead, or collect samples of items for analysis. If you need more information, please call the Environmental Health Department at 203-630-4226, and ask to speak to someone about lead.