What is Lead Prevention?

You may not think about the harmful effects of lead often, but it is important to be aware of what it is, what it can do to your body, and how to make sure that you and your loved ones are never at risk of lead poisoning.

Lead is a highly toxic metal that can be found in small amounts in all parts of our environment, including water, air, and soil. Most of the lead exposure that humans receive comes from lead-based paint in homes, particularly in housing built in 1978 or the years prior. In 1978, the federal government banned consumer uses of lead-containing paint, but it is still present in millions of homes, sometimes even under layers of new paint. Most homeowners would be surprised to learn however, that the small amount of lead traces in the paint aren’t the problem – it is the deterioration of the paint that causes illness. Any peeling, cracking, chalking, or chipping is a problem that needs to be addressed as soon as possible.

Another way that humans can be exposed to lead is through lead contaminated dust. This could be tracked into the home from soil outside that is contaminated by exterior lead-based paint and sources such as industrial pollution and past use of leaded gasoline.

Unfortunately, when it comes to lead poisoning, children are often the largest demographic at risk. Since they are growing so rapidly, particularly under the age of six, they tend to put their hands on objects that may be contaminated with lead dust and get it into their mouths. This problem is often seen in children living at or below the poverty line and live in older houses. Lead poisoning can also occur in adults who work or engage in hobbies where lead is used, such as making stained glass.

There are many symptoms to watch out for that may indicate an individual is being affected by lead poisoning, including abdominal pain, abdominal cramps, loss of developmental skills in children, memory loss, headaches, and much more.

In order to prevent lead poisoning, talk to your state or local health department about testing paint and dust from your home, especially if it was built before 1978. Lead can also be found on windows, window sills, doors, and door frames, and renovation efforts can create toxic lead dust if these areas are disturbed or demolished. Make sure that if you are having remodeling done to your home, you are working with a Lead-Safe Certified contractor who will follow the safest work practices.

If you need work done to your home, you can trust the professionals at Advanced Window Systems, LLC. We are Lead-Safe Certified and will make sure that you and your family remain safe from dangerous lead poisoning while we transform your home.