What are the main sources of lead exposure in children?
Toys Lead may be found in the paint on some toys. While Australian standards limit the amount of lead permissible in materials used to make and paint children’s toys, some imported toys may present a risk. A significant proportion of toys sold in Australia are imported from other countries. Environmental sources • Paint – Lead-based household paints were used before 1970 in Australia and is still used in some countries. • Dust – household dust may contain lead particles from deteriorating lead-based household paint, contaminated soil or dust brought into the house on your or your pets’ feet. • Soil – dirt can become contaminated with lead by deteriorating or removed lead-based paint, and previous industrial activities and mining. • Water – Some old household pipes used to be soldered with lead. Rainwater from water tanks may have increased lead levels if lead-containing dust has contaminated the roof or guttering, or by leaching lead from the roof and pipes. Also very old toys and cots
