Lead Hazards

Lead is a naturally occurring metal found in the earth’s crust. Much of the lead in our environment comes from burning fossil fuels, mining, and manufacturing. Lead is a highly toxic metal that produces a range of adverse health effects, particularly in young children. Because of health concerns, lead from gasoline, paints, and other products has been dramatically reduced in recent years. Lead-based paints were banned for residential use in 1978. Homes built in the U.S. before 1978 are likely to have some lead-based paint. When the paint peels and cracks, it makes lead paint chips and dust. Children can be exposed to lead if they eat flaking paint chips or breathe in lead dust.

If your home is built before 1978:

• If you have peeling or chipping lead-based paint, have it removed by qualified professionals. There are standards for certifying lead-based paint professionals to ensure the work is done safely, reliably, and effectively.
• Make sure to renovate safely. Common renovation activities (like sanding, cutting, replacing windows, and more) can create hazardous lead dust. If you’re planning renovations, use contractors certified by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

Livingston County Health Department (LCHD) does not perform lead inspections on private businesses or homes. For health-related questions, please see our Lead Poisoning Prevention webpage.