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:

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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