For a more comprehensive list of sources see: Sources of lead 1) Old paint from buildings built prior to 1970. There are at least 3.5 million homes in Australia with lead based paint and it is not possible to identify it by its "look". Lead paint is often sweet tasting and therefore children will pick at it and eat it and animals will lick it. Also, when this paint is sanded, scraped or is peeling it creates a dangerous lead dust that is easily inhaled or swallowed. This dust also enters soil where it is easily accessed by children or animals. LEAD does not BREAK DOWN. It remains toxic and unless dealt with safely it will not "go away." 2) Exhaust emissions from leaded petrol driven vehicles were another source of lead particles which not only polluted the air, but settled on soil and in buildings where people will come into contact with it. 3) Dust in the roof void (attic), wall cavity or under floor area is often contaminated with lead. So if a ceiling or wall is to come down, or a skylight or attic ladder is to be installed, care must be taken to prevent contamination of living spaces. 4) Workers such as furniture restorers, leadlighters, car battery and radiator workers and painters can bring home lead dust on their clothes and their children are poisoned as a result. Hobbyists such as fishermen making sinkers, shooters at indoor firing ranges or miniature collectors are also at risk. 5) The first flush of water in the morning or during the night should not be given to babies or young children because lead can leach into water. New taps can contain 4.5% lead and older taps may contain even more. New plumbing may leach lead for up to five years! A water filter may be the answer for your family. Some food cans sold in Australia STILL have lead solder. These cans are usually irregular in shape with a thick seam and horizontal depressions (dents). This is a source of lead that is EASILY avoided by buying a non lead-soldered product which has a flat welded seam. 7) If you are a gardener some above ground crops such as tomatoes and beans are better grown in "leaded soils" than root vegetables e.g potatoes and carrots. Also all produce, especially root vegetables, should be carefully washed or peeled before eating to minimise any risk. Vacuum cleaner dust should not be put in the compost bin as this dust can contain high levels of lead. 8) Pets often show symptoms of lead poisoning before people. If your pet is unwell and a vet diagnoses lead poisoning, you should see that ALL members of the household have a blood test for lead. Pets should be kept outside and definitely off childrens beds because they collect lead dust on their coats. Regular washing of the pet and handwashing for the family members is important. ARE YOU AT RISK?
WHAT CAN WE DO TO PROTECT OURSELVES FROM LEAD? The Global Lead Advice & Support Service will give free telephone service, free written material and free community workshops and meetings to parents. We will provide advice and support about any lead related questions or concern that you may have. Advice such as: where to have samples of paint, dust or soil analysed, how to take simple steps with diet to reduce the absorption rate of lead, how to undertake a safe renovation or how to ensure your tradesperson uses safe methods. If you or a child may have been exposed to lead the only reliable way of knowing is to have a blood lead test conducted. Ask your GP.
If you
would like more information please phone For a more comprehensive list of sources see: Sources of lead |
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