Since the disaster in Flint, Michigan came to light in 2014, state governments all around the U.S. have expanded water quality testing programs and doubled down on their efforts to test the water quality in schools, government buildings, and older water pipes. In 2019, an investigative report found that a large number of elementary schools have elevated levels of lead. Lead is an extremely toxic heavy metal that has serious consequences – headaches, stomach pains, high blood pressure, miscarriages, reduced sperm count/infertility, and the loss of developmental skills in children.

Lead contamination and poisoning used to be extremely common, considering lead was frequently used in household items, cosmetics, and even wine. Although we know better now, after decades of studies and tests done by doctors and scientists, laws all over the world have prevented lead from being used in a way that’s harmful to human health. However, lead contamination still happens frequently enough that the CDC and EPA consistently release warnings. You may already be aware that old paint may contain lead, but there are a variety of unexpected lead sources that can lead to contamination and require professional testing to ensure safety.

Lead is a metal that is poisonous to humans. Lead was commonly used in paint, gasoline, and plumbing materials and can still be found in batteries, pipes, solder, pottery, roofing materials, and even some cosmetics. This material can be present in paint, dust, water, and even the air. 

Commercial spaces often require building managers to perform air sampling at least once a year to check for safety. It’s vital that samples are taken properly and sent to a trustworthy lab, like SanAir Technologies Laboratory. Viable air sampling can detect a number of harmful contaminants in the air, like bacteria, fungi, and pollen. You likely have to test your space’s air quality at least once a year, or whenever you suspect an environmental hazard.