General Information
Lead poisoning is preventable! Lead can be found inside and outside the home, including in the water that travels through lead pipes or in the soil around a house. The most common source of exposure is from lead-based paint, which was used in many homes built before 1978. Other examples of possible sources of lead include: some metal toys or toys painted with lead-based paint, furniture painted with lead-based paint, some metal-containing jewelry and lead glazed pottery or porcelain. The most common sources of lead in drinking water are lead pipes, faucets and fixtures. To better protect public health, the State of Michigan recently adopted a series of changes to the Lead and Copper Rule-part of the Michigan Safe Drinking Water Act. Changes to Michigan’s 2018 Lead and Copper Rule.
Individuals and Families
Lead Poisoning: Know the Facts
Is Your Child Safe from Lead Poisoning?
Pregnant and Nursing Mothers: What You Need to Know About Lead Poisoning
Healthcare Professionals
Lead and Drinking Water: Information for Healthcare Professionals Blood Lead Levels-Quick Reference for Primary Care Providers
Some jobs and hobbies can results in lead exposure, including:
- renovating & painting
- Mining
- Smelting
- battery recycling
- refinishing old furniture
- auto body work
- hunting (shot & reloading lead ammunition
- fishing (fishing sinkers & jigs)
- stained glass
- making pottery (dyes & glazes)
Get the Facts! Here are some good resources:
For Employers: Lead Safety-Doing It Right
Health Dangers from Lead What Workers Should Know
Occupational Lead Exposure: An Alert for Workers