Lead Hazards

Childhood lead poisoning is preventable. Lead exposure is still a health concern in the U.S., especially for young children. Parents of children under 6 should ask their pediatrician about lead testing.

Common Sources of Lead Exposure

  • Lead-Based Paint: The most common hazard, especially in homes built before 1978. Paint chips and dust can be ingested by children through hand-to-mouth activity. Renovations in these homes should only be done by certified lead renovators.

  • Other Sources:

    • Old plumbing and pipes

    • Bullets and batteries

    • Herbs/spices grown in contaminated soil

    • Lead-glazed pottery, cookware, or tableware

    • Imported candies (some from Mexico/Asia)

    • Imported cosmetics and ceremonial powders

    • Some toys and toy jewelry

    • Vinyl mini blinds

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Who Is at Risk?

*Children (Ages 0–6)

  • All young children: Universal testing is recommended in higher-risk areas.

  • Older homes: Children living in homes built before 1978.

  • Low-income households: Families more likely to live in older, unsafe housing.

  • Past exposure: Children with a history of exposure or siblings/playmates with lead poisoning.

  • Immigrant, refugee, or adopted children: May have been exposed in countries with weaker regulations.

  • Children exposed to imported spices: Especially from outside the U.S.

*Pregnant Women

  • At risk if living in older homes, working with lead, or using lead-containing products. Lead can harm the developing fetus. 

These cases are handled at the state level. 

*Adults

  • Jobs with exposure: Painters, renovators, auto mechanics, demolition workers, plumbers, welders, battery or metal workers, ceramic workers, gun range employees, and more.

  • Hobbies with exposure: Car restoration, stained glass making, pottery, shooting ranges, bullet casting, fishing weight making, smelting, or using imported cosmetics/powders.

These cases are handled at the state level. 

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Blood Lead Testing for Children Under 6 Years Old - 


Talk to your pediatrician about testing. 

What Test Results Mean - 

  • Less than 3.5 µg/dL: Normal. Teach family how to prevent exposure. Retest at age 2 or sooner if risks increase.

  • 3.5 – 4.9 µg/dL: Retest in 3 months. Check nutrition, test siblings, and follow prevention steps.

  • 5 – 9.9 µg/dL: Same as above, plus exposure history form and possible home inspection.

  • 10 – 44.9 µg/dL: Urgent testing and mandatory health department inspection. Connect family with support services.

  • 45 – 69.9 µg/dL: Very urgent. Call Poison Control, consider X-rays, and retest frequently.

  • 70+ µg/dL: Emergency. Immediate hospitalization required.

For full guidance, visit NCDHHS Division of Public Health.

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Childcare Facilities & Lead Safety

  • All childcare centers must test water for lead regularly.

  • Inspectors check for peeling paint during routine visits.

  • Older buildings (built before 1978) must be inspected before being licensed as childcare centers.

  • If a child with lead poisoning spends significant time in a childcare facility, that facility will also be investigated.

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Resources

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Equal Opportunity Statement

Haywood County Health and Human Services Agency is an equal opportunity employer and provider.

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