Lead

Lead can be a dangerous contaminant, with especially severe effects in children. Once a child has been lead poisoned, the impairment it may cause is irreversible. Lead harms children’s nervous systems and is associated with reduced IQ, behavioral problems, and learning disabilities. In large doses, it can cause coma, convulsions and death.

Lead paint has been strictly regulated since 1978, but even in recent years, lead has been used in products you or your child may come in contact with – including things in your home like paint and mini-blinds. While lead paint in homes built before 1978 continues to be the most common source of lead exposure, children may also be exposed to lead from toys and dishware that have been manufactured using paint with lead levels in excess of US law and antique toys and collectibles that have been passed down from generation to generation.

LLHD Sanitarians enforce the State of Connecticut Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Regulations. When we receive a report of elevated blood lead levels, we initiate an investigation to determine how and why the individual is being lead poisoned. Specific attention is given to children, who are affected more severely by elevated blood lead levels than adults.