What is it?
Lead is a soft, heavy, dull gray metallic element that, prior to 1978, was used profusely in interior and exterior paint, household plumbing solder, and gasoline. Lead can also be found in tap water, resulting from leaking of lead based soldered joints and from municipal water supplies. It’s sometimes prevalent in soils, due to auto and industrial emissions (most prevalent near freeways).

For the home owner, it is important to be aware that lead-based paint was often used in homes that were built prior to 1978, before the Federal Government banned lead paint in residential structures. Federal regulations require that home sellers provide lead disclosures to home buyers who are purchasing a home built before that year.

Potential Health Concerns:
Depending on the level of exposure, lead can cause damage to the brain and nervous system, behavior problems, slowed growth, headaches, difficulties during pregnancy, high blood pressure, digestive problems and muscle and joint pain.

Lead poisoning occurs when it has been introduced into the bloodstream by ingestion and inhalation of lead dust or fumes. It replaces calcium and/or iron in the hemoglobin and can be stored in the tissues and bones for several years, repeatedly contaminating the blood as it is released from tissue and bones.

Lead can affect everyone in the family, but children are often at highest risk, especially small children who don't hesitate to put things in their mouths--like paint chips that could contain lead.

What RDS can offer you:
We have several testing services available to help you determine if harmful levels of lead are present within your home or building. In just a short time, we can come in, sample the suspect material and send it off for quick analysis. If it is determined that a concerning level of lead is present, we’ll assist you with identifying the most effective and safe way for resolving the problem.