Lead poisoning is one of the leading environmental diseases affecting young children. Lead poisoning can cause permanent brain damage, reduced IQ, learning disabilities, and behavior problems.

Reducing or preventing exposure to environmental hazards in schools and child care is important since children spend a significant portion of their day in those facilities and are more vulnerable to the effects of environmental exposures.

The most prevalent lead hazards in schools and child care are lead-based paint, lead dust and contaminated soil. Renovation, repair and maintenance of older schools, If not performed correctly, can create hazardous lead dust and debris by disturbing lead-based paint.

As a school and child care administrator, you can take steps to ensure the safety and well-being of the children in your care.