Where to Detect Lead?
Lead is a serious concern in older homes built before 1978, particularly in paint. Friction in high-traffic areas can create lead dust, significantly increasing the risk to your family. Areas where doors and windows open and close can be especially hazardous.
The image below (Where to Test for Lead Diagram) highlights common spots where lead may be present. With the help of Fluoro-Spec lead test kits, you can detect small particles of lead dust, making it effective for clean-ups and eliminating lead in your environment. Use the Fluoro-Spec Lead Test Kit to detect lead in these areas.
Where to Test For Lead Diagram
Spots in Your Home to Test for Lead
Lead was commonly used in homes built before 1950, and many houses constructed before 1978 are still at risk. Approximately 60 million homes may contain lead. Additionally, there are 12.8 million water pipes across the country that are made of or may contain lead. Lead in the home becomes dangerous when dust is created or if paint begins to peel, as this indicates that lead is being released into the environment, putting you and others at risk of lead poisoning. The accompanying image shows areas to test for lead if your home was built before 1978 or if you notice peeling paint. Don't wait for symptoms to appear—lead poisoning is preventable. If your home was built before 1978, get it tested today to ensure your family's safety. Familiarize yourself with your environment and test your home! Knowledge is protection.
Lead is still an issue worldwide
The historical use of lead-based paint and leaded gasoline has resulted in significant challenges for subsequent generations. Today, these issues require ongoing efforts to remediate and prevent lead poisoning, which continues to be a critical public health concern in our modern society.
Before 1940 Homes
87%
Between 1940 & 1959
69%
Between 1960 & 1977
1 in 4 homes
Half life of lead in a child's brain is
2 years
Why is it important?
Exposure to lead, even in small amounts, can lead to irreversible harm, including developmental delays and cognitive challenges in children. The good news is that you can take action by being aware of the dangers of lead and using a fluoro-spec lead test kit to check for its presence in your home.
Lead-Based Paint in Homes
The line graph illustrates the probability of a home containing lead-based paint based on its year of construction.
The data shows a significant decline in the likelihood of lead exposure after 1978, the year when lead-based paint was banned for residential use. Homes built after that year have virtually no risk of containing lead-based paint. Although modern homes are at a lower risk for lead exposure, it's important to remain cautious about other items or materials that may still contain lead. If you are concerned about lead in your soil, we provide lead testing services for that.
PAST: Lead in Gasoline
Here is a graph illustrating the societal impacts of leaded gasoline in the United States from the first sale of leaded gasoline in 1923.
The trends show:
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Leaded Gasoline Usage peaked in the mid-20th century and dropped sharply after its phase-out began.
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Violent Crime Rates closely followed the increase and subsequent decrease in lead exposure.
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IQ Reductions were significant during periods of high lead use, particularly affecting children.
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Lead-Related Deaths rose as long-term exposure impacted health but declined with reduced lead in the environment.
This highlights the extensive and lasting effects of leaded gasoline on public health and society.
