• What is lead poisoning?
  Lead poisoning occurs when high concentrations of lead are found in blood levels.  In children, this can result in loss of IQ points, hyperactivity, learning disorders and even behavior problems. Adults, too, can suffer lead poisoning from exposure to lead at work, during home renovations, or engaging in certain hobbies.

• Where does the lead come from?
  Lead in dust and soil is the greatest source of lead exposure for children.  It can be found wherever paint containing lead is peeling, cracking or flaking. It’s a problem in old homes and apartments that were built before 1978, the year that lead paint was banned for residential use.

• What causes lead paint to break down?
  Age is one reason.  Paint, lead-based or otherwise, doesn’t last forever.  Paint containing lead can also break down when exposed to moisture from plumbing or roofing leaks, rain entering open windows or steam from showers or unvented dryers.  Additionally, storm windows can build up moisture and cause paint on the outside windows to peel and crack.

• What does lead dust look like?
  Lead dust is very fine.  Lead in dust can not be seen.  If you can see paint chips, there will also be lead in dust.  If you cannot see paint chips, you might still have lead in the household dust.  Lead in dust comes from the breakdown of paint containing lead, previous deposits of lead in soil, or from industrial emissions.  All of those lead particles can then mix with household dust.

• Where does lead dust accumulate?
  Most lead dust accumulates in window wells and on floors and carpeting.  Dust is released when impact or friction surfaces, like windows or doors, open and close or when children run up and down the stairs. Getting rid of dust will help protect a child’s health by removing dirt, lead and germs.  Weekly cleaning using a damp mop and wet wipes will help remove the dust.

• How can I keep my children safe?
  Children should eat well-balanced meals that are high in calcium and iron. They should be encouraged to wash their hands before eating and after playing on the floor or outdoors.  All children should be screened for lead at age one and again, at age two.

For more information about how you can protect your family, visit the New Jersey
Department of Community Affairs website:
      www.leadsafenj.org