Lead Abatement: What You Need To Know To Protect Your Family

By now, most of us have heard about the harmful effects of lead exposure, especially for young children.

Health Problems Caused By Exposure To Lead

Some of the health problems that can be experienced with exposure to lead are as follows:

  1. Nerve Damage
  2. Brain Damage
  3. Behavioral Problems
  4. Mental Retardation
  5. Learning Disabilities

Lead can actually cause problems with most of the body’s systems. Lead exposure does not necessarily need to be long term to cause real damage, one exposure may be  enough.  If the level of exposure is high enough, the result may be coma or death.  In adults, exposure can mean digestive problems, sleep problems, joint pain, muscle aches and erratic moods.

Where Is Lead Commonly Found?

Unfortunately, there are several sources of lead can that still be responsible for lead poisoning today.  These are the areas of concern where high levels of lead have been discovered in the past.

  • Older Homes

You may have heard that homes built after 1964 are considered safe but that is not entirely accurate.  Homes built prior to 1978 may also be a risk for lead paint dust exposure.  If you are buying an older home or planning to paint or remodel, lead testing would be prudent.  Most experts recommend that you not use the do-it-yourself kits due to unreliable testing results. Hiring a qualified environmental contractor helps ensure accurate results and gives you peace of mind.

  •  Contaminated Play Areas

Lead paint was also used outdoors and when exposed to the elements can break down faster than paint used indoors.  If there have been lead exposure incidents in your area you may have decided that back yard play is not wise but even the adults spending time in the yard can track contaminated soil into the house on their shoes.

  • In-Home Contamination Sources

Plumbing is a big culprit of lead exposure in the home.  If your home has brass faucets, copper pipes or lead pipes, lead can leech into your drinking water.  Some other sources can include dish wear not manufactured in the U.S.A. or children’s toys not subject to our strict testing.  One unusual place lead paint dust has been found is behind the baseboards where lead paint was once on the walls.

With the risks associated with lead exposure so high, lead abatement must be swift and safe. The FERRO Canada team are experts in efficient and effective lead abatement in both commercial and residential facilities.  Our lead removal equipment includes methods for detecting lead on paint and other surfaces.

If you are concerned about the possibility of lead contamination, do not hesitate to contact us right away!  There is no time to waste.