Lead in Paint

Lead in Paint

Test Kit

Lead poisoning, primarily caused by ingesting lead paint and inhaling lead dust, affects over 200,000 children annually and can result in severe brain damage.

The PRO-LAB® Lead in Paint Test Kit :

  • Offers testing for suspected lead paint or lead dust.
  • Complies with EPA Title X requirements for real estate transactions.
  • Utilizes an easy-to-use test employing an atomic absorption spectrometer via a graphite furnace, following EPA method SW846 7000B.
  • Provides lab results within 2 weeks.

Children under the age of 7 are more susceptible to lead poisoning, as their developing bodies absorb lead at a rate four times that of adults. Even short-term exposure can lead to permanent damage, from learning disabilities to severe mental retardation and even death.

Children are most commonly exposed to lead within their homes, with lead-based paints, tap water, colorful ceramic dishes, soil, and airborne lead particles as the major sources.

Taking Action: Have Your Child Tested

Health officials recommend testing children for lead contamination by the age of one and subsequently every few years. If you suspect lead in your home, have your child tested as early as six months old. Contact your local health department for information on medical attention and testing facilities.

Lead Paint Contamination

Lead-based paint is prevalent in homes and apartments constructed before 1960, with properties built before 1978 also at risk. It can be found on various surfaces, including walls, ceilings, woodwork, windows, furniture (including cribs), children’s toys, and floors. Deteriorating paint chips and lead dust particles pose significant risks.

Some ceramic dishware, especially those imported from foreign countries, may have lead-contaminated glaze, which can leach into food or liquids, particularly acidic ones.

Identify whether your home and household items contain lead using home test kits, such as PRO-LAB’s solutions. Maintain dust-free play areas for children, wash floors and windows regularly with appropriate cleansers, and keep toys clean.

Reducing Contamination Risks

To mitigate the risk of lead poisoning, it is crucial to determine whether your house and household items contain lead. Test all suspected surfaces and dishware. Home test kits like PRO-LAB®’s Professional Lead Surface Test Kit and Professional Test Kit for Paint & Dust offer a straightforward, accurate, and non-toxic solution for detecting lead contamination. Ensure that all surfaces, including walls, windows, ceilings, floors, and ceramics, are tested.

Maintaining a clean environment is equally important. Keep children’s play areas as dust-free as possible. Regularly clean floors and windows with phosphate-rich cleansers, such as automatic dishwashing detergents, and ensure that toys are cleaned frequently.

Seek Professional Assistance

If you discover lead-based paint in your house, do not attempt removal yourself. Contact your local health department and engage a professional with specialized training in lead paint management. We are located in Miami FL and ready to help you with any questions you might have.