How are children exposed to lead?

Rain water can be a source of exposure if used for drinking and cooking purposes. Boiling does not reduce lead contamination from rain water. 

People employed at the Smelter are at risk of taking lead particles off site on their bodies, via their hair, hands, clothing, possessions and vehicles.

Additional to lead-based paints, exposure can also occur when renovating older homes where dust may have accumulated over time in wall cavities or in ceilings.

Although much less prevalent now, exposure can occur through contact with lead-based paint which is sometimes still found in older homes. Children can be exposed to lead by eating paint chips that fall off as paint ages, by chewing on painted cribs or by breathing in dust when paint is sanded off during renovations.

A significant source of lead can come from dust that enters the home via prevailing winds that blow dust from the Smelter.