On this page, you will find more information about the sources and health effects of the metals that were analyzed in dust samples, as well as recommended actions to reduce exposure to these metals.
Where do metals in dust come from?
Floor dust can come from sources inside your home and material tracked in from outside. If your home was built prior to 1979 it may contain lead-based paint. Windowsills often gather dust that includes old paint from the interior or exterior of the home. If you live near a historic roadway before leaded gasoline was banned in 1995, lead in soil could also be a source of lead in your household dust, especially if you have pets or wear shoes inside.
Recommended actions to reduce exposure to lead in dust:
- Maintain all painted surfaces in good condition.
- Clean frequently using a wet mop, cloth, or sponge.
- Use a lead-safe certified renovator to perform renovation, repair, and painting jobs to reduce the likelihood of contaminating your home with dust.
What are the potential health effects of metals exposure?
Health effects from lead exposure are irreversible, lifelong, and cumulative as exposure continues. These may include issues with hearing, speech, the brain and central nervous system, growth, and development. Learning and behavior issues include lower IQ, decreased ability to pay attention, and underperformance in school. In adults, lead exposure can cause kidney problems and high blood pressure.
Health effects of other metals can include gastrointestinal, respiratory, and cardiovascular issues. Metals such as arsenic and cadmium can be carcinogenic with long term exposure. Metals can also cause damage to the stomach, liver, kidney, intestines, and brain.
Some metals are normal and can even be beneficial, but at high concentrations can impact health. This is known as hormesis, a biological response mechanism where low-dose amounts of environmental agents have a beneficial effect and high-dose amounts can be toxic. Click here for more info.
