LEAD
It is estimated that 70 to 90% of the lead burned in
gasoline goes out the tailpipe and ends up as particulate
matter in the air. Lead in the air is very dangerous
because it is directly absorbed by the body as an inhaled
material. The primary sources of lead poisoning are from
the ingestion of lead particulates in the air and the ingestion
of lead-based paints which may be found in older homes, in
paints on toys and playground furniture, and in decals on
drinking glasses. Lead can also be found in pottery and
ceramics, dust in topsoil, factory and automobile fumes,
fumes from battery casings, water from lead pipes, and in
lead weights.
One small paint chip, half an inch square, can contain more than 1 milligram
of lead - 10 times more than the maximum "safe" daily dose of lead. Since
1977, household paint cannot contain more than 0.06% lead by dry weight.
However, high lead contents are still allowable in automobile paint, bridge
paint, heavy equipment paint, street markings, and any non-residential paint.
The lead limit in these paints can be whatever amount is deemed necessary by
the manufacturer.
Lead is poisonous in all forms. It is one of the most
hazardous, toxic metals because once in the body it can
accumulate. Ingestion and inhalation of lead cause the
most severe symptoms. Its symptoms are many and
severe. Among the symptoms of lead poisoning are leg
cramps, muscle weakness, irritability, lethargy, stupor,
behavioral disturbances, hyperexcitability, convulsions,
brain damage, anemia, weight loss, and malnutrition.
Other symptoms include headaches, sterility, miscarriage,
or the birth of brain-damaged babies.
To avoid accidental lead poisoning in your home,
follow these suggestions:
- Never burn colored newsprint or magazines in the
fireplace. Lead in the inks can be released into the room
at levels that are dangerous to children, adults, and pets.
- Use only high-fired earthenware to cook or store food.
Low-fired pottery can have remaining lead in the glaze
which can leach into acidic foods.
- Trace the ancestry of your pewter dishes and goblets.
Pre-1930 pewter and some modern imports contain
dangerously high levels of lead that can leach into foods.
- If you are removing paint from your home and suspect
the paint contains lead, consult your local health
department. Standard paint removal practices, such as
heat guns, paint removers, and sanding, can be very
dangerous when used on lead paint.
- Test the water from your tap for lead; some of the
plumbing may contain lead or may have used lead
solder. To avoid water that has been standing in contact
with pipes, run water 1 to 3 minutes before using. Use
water from the cold water tap for drinking, cooking, and
especially for making baby formula. Hot water is more
likely to contain lead.
For questions pertaining to lead or to test your paint for
lead content, contact the nearest State Department of
Health Office. For questions concerning lead in your tap
water, contact your city or county water department.
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