Lead Poisoning Questions

What is lead poisoning?

Lead poisoning occurs when there are increased lead levels in a child's blood. Lead Poisoning causes decreased intelligence, behavioral disorders, and neurological problems that can cause irreversible damage to a child.

What should a parent do if their child is exposed to lead?

The only certain way to know if a child has lead poisoning is through a blood test, so if a parent discovers that their child has been exposed they should request a blood test for lead from their pediatrician immediately. They should also contact the Department of Health so that the premises can be examined and an abatement order requiring a cleanup of the lead can be issued. If your child has sustained lead poisoning then you should immediately contact a qualified attorney so that your child's rights can be protected.

In order to avoid exposure to lead, parents of young children should take special precautions. Parents of babies and young children should make sure toys and pacifiers are washed frequently and that children do not chew on surfaces that could contain lead, such as windowsills. Counters and floors should be cleaned frequently. Also make sure that your child eats a healthy diet with plenty of iron and calcium, as more lead is absorbed on an empty stomach.

If the child was exposed at school, who should the parent contact?

The only certain way to know if a child has lead poisoning is through a blood test, so if a parent discovers that their child has been exposed to lead at school they should request a blood test for lead from their pediatrician immediately. They should also contact the Department of Health so that the premises can be examined and an abatement order requiring a cleanup of the lead can be issued. If your child has sustained lead poisoning then you should immediately contact a qualified attorney so that your child's rights can be protected.

If the child was exposed in a rental property, should the parent contact the owner of the building directly?

If the exposure resulted in lead poisoning they should contact an attorney immediately, in addition to contacting doctors and the Board of Health. An attorney experienced in fighting lead poisoning claims will determine all the entities that need to be notified and notify them of the child's claim.