ACTION LEVELS

Readers should become familiar with terminology and basic levels that trigger concern and/or action. Check with the appropriate authorities if you have questions and to verify applicable action levels which may change over time.

Blood lead levels: Generally from drawn blood and not a finger stick test which can be unreliable. Units are measured in micrograms per deciliter (ug/dl) and reflect the 1995 standards from the Centers of Disease Control:

Children:

Adults:

Lead in paint: Differing methods report results in differing units. Lead is considered a potential hazard if above the following levels, but can be a hazard at lower levels, if improperly handled. These are the current numbers as identified by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (1995):

Lab analysis of samples:

XRF reading: in milligram per centimeter squared

Lead dust wipe test: in micrograms per square foot

Lead in soil: high contact bare play areas, listed as parts per million (ppm)