Lead exists in places individuals remain unaware of, and that lead is harming their bodies. Older homes and buildings remain sources of lead as does soil found in yards and playgrounds. Certain products today contain lead, and a person might ingest lead in their drinking water. How can a person keep their family safe from these threats?
Lead in Homes and Buildings
Any home or building built before 1978 may contain lead paint. The federal government banned its use that year, but lead-based paint remains present in older homes. When the paint remains in good shape, it does little harm. However, when it begins chipping, peeling, or cracking, the homeowner needs to take prompt action. Work with a professional who has obtained EPA lead certification, such as Zota Pro, to address this paint safely.
Lead in Soils
Exterior lead paint often makes its way into the soil around houses and buildings. In addition, leaded gasoline common in the past may have made its way into the soil. This same soil might contain lead following contamination from an industrial source. These sources increase the amount of lead found in soils that already contain lead naturally.
Children may ingest this lead when they pick things up and put them in their mouths. Vegetables grown in soil containing high amounts of lead can make a person ill, and a person may track lead from soil in on the soles of their shoes. Wash your hands regularly to remove contaminants, and plant bushes around the home’s perimeter to prevent children from playing in soil that may contain high amounts of lead.
Lead in Products
Products found in the average American home often contain lead paint. This problem appears most often in heirlooms that have been passed down through the family. If a child bites a toy made with lead paint, they may become ill. The United States Consumer Product Safety Commission has banned the use of lead in products intended for children.
The Food and Drug Administration has also taken action to reduce lead exposure in the country. It limits the amount of lead cosmetic products may contain. This agency also warns consumers against consuming foods or liquids stored in containers made using lead. The lead may transfer from the container to the food or drink.
Lead in Water
Lead seeps into drinking water through pipes, fixtures, and faucets that contain this substance. When the lead corrodes, it makes its way into the water supply. The Safe Drinking Water Act limits the amount of lead that may be present in drinking water in America.
Hobbies and Employment
A person may come into contact with lead while doing their job or engaging in hobbies. Any job or hobby that uses lead-based paint puts a person at risk of exposure. This includes refinishing old furniture and making pottery. Avoid putting materials including lead in the mouth, and always ventilate the air properly when melting lead. Clean hands and clothing after working with any materials that may contain lead. This prevents the lead from being spread throughout the home or business.
Lead serves many purposes today. When handled improperly, however, it can harm a person’s health. Use the tips above to reduce the risk of lead poisoning. Your health is priceless, so protect it at all costs. Knowing how to address lead in your home or business is one way to do so.