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Alameda County, CA, acgov.org

Larry Brooks
Director
Healthy Homes Department
Including the Lead Poisoning Prevention Program

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SOURCES OF LEAD


a wall with peeling paint

Paint

Paint on or in older homes has been known to contain lead and cause lead poisoning.

garden soil

Soil

Many homes here have yards with lead contaminated soil.

bulk cooking spices

Cooking Spices

Most imported ground spices tested by us have contained high lead levels.

ceramic dishes

Ceramic Dishes

Lead was often used to make dishes with bright colors & transparent glazes.

someone sanding wood

Home

Lead in older homes can be exposed during home improvement projects.

gardening tools

Gardening

In the Bay Area, soil is often contaminated with lead. Learn how to garden safely.

ceremonial powders

Ceremonial Powders

Most imported ceremonial/cultural powders sampled by us have had high lead levels.

powdered cosmetics

Imported Cosmetics

Most imported cosmetics sampled by us have had high lead levels.

powdered herbs

Herbal Remedies

Most herbal/ayurvedic medicines & remedies sampled by us have contained high lead levels.

a chile playing with ring blocks

Toys

Children may be exposed to lead from toys that have been imported or that are antique toys.

jars of baby food

Other Sources

Baby food, blinds & playground equipment have all been recalled for having lead, at times.

water glass filled by the sink tap

Water

Water has not been a source of lead poisoning in Alameda County, as in other parts. Learn why.



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