Burlington Remediation Company

Keeping Your Kids Safe: Surprising Sources of Lead Exposure for Children

Lead exposure is a serious health concern for children, affecting their development and causing a range of potential health problems. While lead paint in older homes is a well-known risk, there are many surprising sources of lead exposure in Canada that parents may not be aware of. At SLC Environmental Inc., we're committed to creating healthy homes and safe environments for children. In this post, we'll explore these hidden lead hazards and provide tips to keep your kids safe.

Beyond the Walls: Unexpected Sources of Lead:

• Playgrounds and Play Structures: Older playgrounds built before the mid-1970s may have lead-based paint or lead-contaminated soil. Chipped or peeling paint and lead-contaminated dirt can be ingested by children during play.
• Toys and Art Supplies: Lead can be present in imported toys, especially those from countries with less stringent regulations. Art supplies like paints, crayons, and even pencil lead can also contain lead.
• Household Dust: Lead dust can settle on surfaces from deteriorating lead paint, contaminated soil tracked in from outside, or even from old plumbing fixtures. Children can easily ingest lead dust through hand-to-mouth contact.
• Imported Spices and Cosmetics: Certain spices, particularly those from unregulated sources, may be contaminated with lead. Lead can also be found in some traditional cosmetics like kohl.

Protecting Your Children from Lead Exposure

• Test Your Home for Lead: If your home was built before 1978, it's crucial to have it tested for lead paint. We at, SLC Environmental Inc. are Lead abatement professionals and can conduct a thorough inspection and safely remove lead paint hazards.
• Choose Safe Playgrounds: Look for newer playgrounds with equipment made after the lead paint ban. If you're unsure about a playground's age, supervise your children closely and prevent them from putting anything in their mouths.
• Select Lead-Free Toys and Art Supplies: Look for products labelled "lead-free" and avoid imported items that lack proper certification. Consider using washable, non-toxic crayons and paints for young children.
• Maintain a Clean Home: Regularly clean floors, windowsills, and other surfaces to remove lead dust. Wash children's hands frequently, especially before eating.
• Be Mindful of Additional Sources: Limit children's exposure to imported spices and cosmetics of unknown origin.

Keeping Your Family Safe Starts with Awareness. By understanding the hidden dangers of lead exposure and taking proactive steps, you can create a safe and healthy environment for your children. If you suspect lead exposure in your home or have questions about lead abatement services, Contact SLC Environmental Inc. today. We're here to help you protect your family's health.