Lead is a heavy, gray metal that is soft and malleable. It was put into a variety of products due to its unique chemical properties. Lead will not crack easily with wear, weather or temperature change. Lead helps paint bind to substrates and other layers of paint. Lead kills mold and mildew while also preventing rust corrosion.

Lead becomes most dangerous when it is in the form of dust or fumes. These particles can be microscopic and easy to breathe or swallow. 

Where is lead found?

Lead is most commonly found in paint. Lead-based paint is defined as any paint, varnish, shellac, or other coating on surfaces that contain more than 1.0 mg/cm2 of lead or more than 0.5% lead by weight. Lead was utilized in paints for both color and durability.

Lead dust contributes to the majority of lead poisonings in children. Lead dust is created by friction from windows and doors. Due to its chemical properties, heavy lead dust settles and contaminates floors, counter tops, furniture, toys, shelves and books.