Lead Poisoning

Please read this series of special reports by Debbie Alberstadt, R.N. of Community Connection for Child Care about the dangers of lead poisoning. For further information on health or safety issues or a free lead test, call Debbie Alberstadt at (661) 321-3100, ext. 23.

Article I (9/23/99) | Article II (1/8/99) | Article III (6/3/99)

Leaded or Lead Free, I
By Debbie Alberstadt R.N.
Health Consultant

How many live in a house older than 1978? How many have ever remodeled noticed chipped or peeling paint or seen dust on windowsills, by doors, or on baseboards? Have you ever thought of LEAD POISONING? In certain high-risk areas of California, 2 out of 3 children have high lead levels in their blood. Have you looked at your home or day care facility lately? The majority of housing in Kern County is built prior to 1978; therefore paint is a big factor. Chipping or peeling paint is one of the high-risk dangers to children, ages 1-6 years of age because they are constantly putting things in their mouths. Around 85% of private and public housing built before 1978 contains some lead-based paint.

Even lead-based paint that appears to be undisturbed can be a problem if it is on surfaces that children chew or that get a lot of wear and tear. Lead dust, that which can not be seen as easily, can occur on surfaces that rub or bump together where children can touch, then put into their mouths. Soil can also be a contaminate when exterior lead-based paint chips or peels and gets into the ground where children play. So, look around, and see if you see any paint that's not on the walls.

Many people like to remodel or just change a few things periodically. If your home is older than 1978, you are likely to be exposed to lead dust. Whether replacing windows or tearing out walls, the amount of lead dust is higher than at any other time. Lead dust can circulate throughout the house and even to the neighbors if not properly attended to. Nailing, drilling, screwing, cutting, sawing, scraping or sanding into lead-painted surfaces should be done at a minimum. A lead-certified contractor can explain necessary steps for serious remodeling. Just some food for thought.

Leaded or Lead Free II
By: Debbie Alberstadt R.N.
Health Consultant

Now that you've checked your 1978 or older house and its surroundings for lead, you should feel pretty good. But wait, there's more to know. Paint is not the only culprit of lead poisoning. What about mini-blinds, older toys or furniture? Many mini-blinds have been found to contain lead, whether verticals or horizontals, if they were made outside the U.S. Sunlight and heat, (which California has a lot of), can break down the blinds and release lead-contaminated dust. Children who touch the mini-blinds or areas around them and put their fingers in their mouths can ingest lead. Remember, its not known how much lead a child needs to be affected and some affects are irreversible! Always check with the retailer to be sure they don't contain lead or look for the yellow triangle that says Prop 65. This sign must be posted on every "leaded" object to protect the consumer. To check your mini-blinds for lead presence, lead test swabs can be obtained from local hardware or paint stores or call me for a free test.

Older toys and furniture may have been made before 1978 and therefore may contain lead paint. Cribs and playpens can get passed down or reused for many years. Baby furniture bought at garage sales can be very dangerous if it is old. Lead is known to have a "sweet" taste. If you observe a child repeatedly chewing on a certain toy, crib, playpen, or other object, it may contain lead. Have your child tested, for peace of mind.

So look again around the house. Check the mini-blinds, toys, and furniture for lead. Keep your house clean and save the children.

Leaded or Lead Free III
By: Debbie Alberstadt R.N.
Health Consultant

Now that you’ve read all about lead in paint, mini-blinds, old toys and baby furniture, you’re feeling pretty knowledgeable. Well, don’t get too comfortable because there’s more to come. Pottery, dishes, glasses and ceramic ware have all been known to be a lead hazard. Lead glaze, materials used or decoration can contain high levels of lead paint. People can acquire these leaded dishes by buying imported products or bringing them into the country in personal baggage. Many pots that are used by the Asian or Latino populations to make salsas and beans are full of lead. Ceramics made by craftspeople in the United States may also pose a risk because of uneven quality control during firing. During the cooking or storing process, lead leaches into the food causing the food to be contaminated. Children under 6 years of age are most susceptible due to their developing bodies and brains.
Symptoms of lead posioning may include:

    -headaches

    -upset stomach

    -loss of appetite

    -loss of energy

    -irritability

    -sleep disorders or

    -vomiting, all of which can lead to more serious complications.

What to look for? Ceramics, dishes, or drinking wares that have bright colors of red, orange, yellow, green, light blue or black may contain lead. Rough or chalky feeling products may also be a sign of lead. To avoid possible exposure to lead from ceramics and other tableware, you should take the following precautions:

    -Do not store food in any dishes that may contain lead

    -Do not store food in antiques or collectibles

    -Be wary of using or storing food or beverages in highly decorated or metallic-coated tableware, particularly items made in other countries or by hobbyists

    -Beware of lead glazed or very decorated mugs or cups for hot beverages

    -Do not heat or microwave food in dishes that may contain lead

Remember, have your children tested at 1 year of age and again at 2 years of age for lead poisoning. Be aware of where items are made and look for the yellow triangle that denotes harmful contents. Test any products you have questions about by obtaining lead swabs from local hardware and paint stores.

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