Lead Poisoning Prevention

"Childhood lead poisoning is one of the most common pediatric health problems in the United States today, and it is entirely preventable" (CDC, 1991). Lead poisoning can affect anyone, but it is especially dangerous to young children, unborn babies and nursing mothers. Even low levels of lead can have adverse effects on the central nervous system and other body systems of small children.
     The most common cause of lead poisoning in children is dust from lead-based paint. Children most commonly ingest lead dust generated from normal use of friction surfaces (window casings, door frames, stairways and railings) or during home renovations. Young children pick up dust from these surfaces and put unwashed hands in their mouths. Peeling or chipping paint may also be a source of contamination inside or outside the home. Any home built before 1978 probably contains lead-based paint. Painted furniture, old toys and dirt around painted homes may also contain significant amounts of lead.
     Essex has many lovely older homes, but several local children have been exposed to toxic levels of lead dust during renovations. Proper techniques for paint removal and repair of lead-based surfaces can save your family from a serious health concern. A booklet describing proper lead-safe procedures for home repair is available in the Essex Health Department, as well as additional information about lead poisoning. The Connecticut State Health Department website also provides excellent information about reducing your family's exposure to lead hazards.

Good rules to follow to avoid lead dust poisoning are:

• Do not let your child play in any area where lead paint chips are obvious, or where lead paint is being disturbed by repair or renovation.
  
• Vacuuming of lead dust areas should be done with an industrial vacuum equipped with a HEPA filter.
  
• Wet mop with a high-phosphate solution window sills and wells, floors, stairs and other exposed wood surfaces to remove dust. Do not dust with a dry cloth.
  
• Wash children's hands before they eat; wash toys or other mouthed items frequently.
  
• Feed children three healthy meals and two healthy snacks a day. Fatty foods and an empty stomach may increase the amount of lead that reaches children's systems.

Lead exposure is less common from lead pipes or solder in water systems. Licensed laboratories can check water samples for the presence of lead from this source. Test bottles are available in the Essex Health Department.
      All children under the age of six should be regularly screened for toxic levels of lead. Ask your pediatrician if your child has been tested. If you wish to have your home tested for the presence of lead paint, a list of licensed lead risk assessors and contractors is available in the Health Department.

     Most lead poisoning can be avoided - you can protect yourself and your family from a potentially serious health risk by using good hygiene, appropriate repair methods and sensible attention to the hazards of living in an older home.
     The Town of Essex takes pride in the knowledge that its children are safe and live in conditions not detrimental to their health. It is important that the children of Essex get tested for lead and measures are taken to prevent exposure in their environment. It is also important for adults with hobbies or occupations that deal with lead to also get tested. With a collaborative effort between the citizens of Essex and the Essex Health Department, we can prevent lead exposure through lead screening, community education, and maintenance of properties. Please feel free to call the Essex Health Department at 860.767.4340 x 119 for any information regarding lead poisoning. It is a serious problem that can be prevented.

Get the Lead Out!