Homes are assumed to have lead-based paint and surface coatings until tested by a professional
U.S. homes with elevated lead levels are home to young children
Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Cases of elevated blood lead level in N.C. children since 2013
What You Should Know
Lead is a toxic metal. It can be harmful to both adults and children. Exposure often occurs with no obvious symptoms.
There is no known safe blood lead level. Children 1-2 years old are at highest risk because of rapid brain development at that age.
Lead can cause:
- Learning disabilities
- Behavioral problems
- Seizures, coma, and even death at very high levels
Protecting children from exposure to lead is important to lifelong good health.
The only way to know if a child was exposed to lead is to ask your health care provider to perform a blood test.
Act early and get your child tested. Ask your child’s health care provider today!
Children are exposed to lead primarily because of exposure to lead-based paint in poor condition and lead-contaminated dust and soil found in housing built before 1978.
Call the N.C. Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Hotline at 1-888-774-0071 for other sources of lead exposure.
Lower Your Risk During Construction or Renovation
Control lead before you renovate or paint. Common renovation activities may create lead-based paint hazards such as dust, contaminated soil and paint chips. These can be harmful to children and adults and exposure often occurs with no obvious signs or symptoms.
Learn how to renovate safely
- Have your home tested
- Contain the work area
- Protect yourself
- Minimize dust
- Keep it clean and control waste
Find or become an NC Certified Lead Renovator
Worried about lead in your home? Search for an NC-Certified Lead Renovator in your area.
Are you a contractor who wants to become certified? Learn more about the Renovation, Repair and Painting (RRP) Program.