Lead – Northeast Nebraska Public Health Department

Lead is a naturally occurring, toxic heavy metal with a long history of use and significant health hazards.

Coming Soon - What we can offer

Lead Testing

We will come to your home and test all painted surfaces, dust, and soil (we do not test water) for lead and determine if there is a lead hazard. (No blood test is required for this).

To qualify for this, you must meet the following requirements:

House must be built before 1978
Must have proof of ownership
A child under the age of 6 must reside, or spend a minimum of 60 hours per year in the home
Household income must be at or below 80% of the median area income by county

Blood Lead Testing

Blood testing for Lead with a simple finger stick using our Lead Care II machine in office at no cost.

Addressing Lead Hazards

If a lead hazard is found, we will suggest abatement or interim repairs.

Lead abatement means permanently removing, covering, or controlling lead hazards so they do not continue to expose people to lead. This work should be done by properly trained/certified lead professionals when required.

Interim repairs are temporary or short-term steps that reduce exposure to lead until permanent repairs can be completed. For example:

Repairing damaged or peeling paint.
Covering lead-painted surfaces with an approved material.
Fixing windows or doors that create lead dust or paint chips.
Cleaning lead dust from floors and other surfaces.
Keeping painted surfaces in good condition.
Preventing children from touching or disturbing deteriorated paint.

What is lead?

Lead is a naturally occurring, toxic heavy metal with a long history of use and significant health hazards.

Where Can It Be Found?

Paint (Pre 1978)
Soil
Ceramics
Pipes and Plumbing Materials
Batteries
Ammunition
Foreign Cosmetics

Who is at Risk?

Pregnant women
Children under the age of 6

What are the Health Effects of Lead?

For children it can cause:

Behavior and learning problems
Lower IQ and hyperactivity
Slowed growth
Hearing problems
Anemia

For pregnant women:

Premature birth or too small baby
Can hurt the baby’s brain, kidney, and nervous system
Increases the likelihood of learning or behavioral problems for the baby
Risk for miscarriage

Lower Your Chance of Lead Exposure

Inspect and maintain all painted surfaces to prevent paint deterioration
Keep your home clean and dust free
Wash children’s hands, bottles, pacifiers, and toys
Teach children to remove their shoes and wash their hands after playing outdoors