What to Do if You Suspect Lead Exposure at Home or Work

In the United States, approximately 170 million people were subjected to lead exposure during their early ages!

The effects of this exposure are still visible today. A study carried out by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention showed that out of all the children tested, 37.7% had blood lead levels below 3.5 µg/dL.

Lead exposure ranks among the most serious health issues that can affect people of any age and normally, the symptoms are not detectable. The main culprits of lead are old paints, water pipes, and contaminated soils. Lead is also present in some industries, though in little quantities. Over time, the tiny amounts of lead can seriously damage the brain, kidneys, and other organs in silence.

According to lead poisoning lawyer Gerald E. Wigod, children are the most vulnerable group to lead poisoning since their bodies are not yet fully developed. If there is at least a little possibility that lead could be in your residence or workplace, you have to be the one to take quick and smart actions to safeguard yourself and your family against the negative effects of such a toxic substance.

Let us talk about the precautions that you must take to completely remove the possibility of coming in contact with lead.

Identifying Sources of Lead Exposure

Finding lead exposure is highlighted as an important procedure since the sources of lead in everyday life are not known by everyone to such an extent. Lead can be found in old structures that used lead-based paint, in water main systems made of lead pipes, and even in certain imported toys and ornaments.

Sometimes renovation works may expose you to dust from old paints. It is very important to have the soil checked in case lead is present around roads or factories. It is wise to conduct a test before planting trees or allowing children to play in that area.

Certain conventional remedies and makeup are still using lead as an ingredient. If you know about these sources, you have already conducted yourself in a way that not just guarantees the well-being and health of your family but that of the entire community and encourages a safe and healthy habitat.

Recognizing Symptoms of Lead Poisoning

Once you become aware of lead hazards, you will naturally want to recognize the symptoms of lead poisoning. The manifestations of lead poisoning can be a headache, tiredness, or moodiness. You should be aware that such signs hardly ever disappear without treatment.

A child might show any of these signs, such as stomach pain, a decrease in appetite, occasional nausea, and others. Of particular importance are children with developmental problems and profound learning disabilities as potential red flags. 

If you or a family member exhibit any of the mentioned symptoms, do not overlook them. One may confuse these signs with something else but they must still be taken into account.

Lead exposure has been known to cause, if not directly, wrongful death when high levels of exposure are prolonged and result in fatal health complications that could have been avoided.

A landlord, employer, manufacturer, or property owner may be legally responsible for the victim’s death if they commit negligent acts. According to https://www.theluckylawfirm.com/, claims in wrongful death court cases are intended to assist mourning families in obtaining the financial compensation necessary for them to go on. An attorney for wrongful death can be of help in realizing this outcome.

Just like you, a community of people cares for the same issue. A call for assistance and implementation of protective measures could significantly impact you and your family.

Testing for Lead in Your Environment

What are the ways you can keep yourself safe from lead exposure? Test for lead in your environment as the first step. Lead testing kits can be bought at a hardware store, or you can hire a certified professional to do an entire evaluation.

The tests will indicate whether lead is present in paint, dust, and soil. In case your house is older than 1978, then it is a must to be proactive. Contact local resource collections or support groups for actual information about lead exposure.

Looking after yourself and those you love consequently doesn’t only make you feel safe but also promotes a safe and secure environment.

Steps to Take After Exposure

If ever you felt you had been exposed to lead, immediately visit a local medical doctor. The healthcare professional will check your condition and conduct some tests to check for lead presence in your body.

There should be no excuse or delay in testing. If symptoms like headache or fatigue have shown up, tell your doctor about them.

Note the location and timing of exposure before recording this information. When the medical staff is assessing your risk levels, these can be very useful. 

Preventing Future Lead Exposure

Environmentalists ought to take preventive measures to stop the lead contamination of the environment. In case your house was built in 1978 or even earlier, then the lead paint testing is a must on the premises. The safest course of action if you discover lead paint is to call a professional contractor who is licensed.

Cleaning would have to be done on a regular basis to keep the property free of lead. This action gets rid of dirt and other possible lead sources that could build up. Watch the water at the property very closely. It will have to be treated in a specific manner. If it is necessary, a filter can be installed.

Never let your guard down, and always go for the right measures to protect yourself whenever you take part in construction or renovation works. It is a good idea to have a few friends or family members around you, as there is more safety in numbers.