The issue of lead hazards is of particular concern with regard to dwellings built prior to 1978. In fact, the presence of lead, lead dust, or lead-based paint chips, presents serious hazards to children, as well as adults.
For children, lead hazards include:
- damage to the brain and nervous system
- behavior and learning problems
- slowed growth
- hearing problems
- headaches
For adults, lead hazards include:
- difficulties during pregnancy
- other reproductive problems (in both men and women)
- high blood pressure
- digestive problems
- nerve disorders
- memory and concentration problems
- muscle and joint pain
For anyone considering buying, remodeling, or renting a home or apartment built before 1978, the investigation of lead hazards is an important consideration. A wide range of different lead screens can provide valuable information on the presence of lead hazards in the home.
For more information, contact
The Department of Housing and Urban Development
Washington, D.C. 20410-2000
Telephone: 1-888-LEADLIST
Web site: WWW
The Department of Housing and Urban Development has a free list of all State-certified lead professionals. It can be obtained either by phone or Internet, with the contact information listed above.
The National Lead Information Center
801 Georgia Avenue
Suite 503
Silver Spring, Maryland 20910
Telephone: 1-800-424-LEAD
Web site: http://www.epa.gov/lead
The National Lead Information Center (NLIC) provides information on lead-based paint hazards, as well as lead abatement and control methods.
Copyright 2009 LexisNexis, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc.