Lead

Lead is poisonous if swallowed. If lead is allowed to enter a child's body it can cause serious long-term health problems.

First aid

If your child has swallowed a solid lead item, take them to hospital.
Contact the Poisons Information Centre on 13 11 26 or your GP for further advice if you think your child may have been exposed to lead.

Paint in older buildings: Lead-based paint from buildings built before 1970 has a sweet taste which is appealing to children. Sanding lead based paint creates dust that can be inhaled or swallowed.
Older buildings: Lead in roofing materials and contaminated water from pipes. Lead is used in making both old and new taps. New plumbing may release low levels of lead for up to 5 years.
Imported toys and cosmetics: Lead-containing paint used in toys can be dangerous, some Hashmi eyeliners imported from overseas have been found to contain lead.
Environment: Lead-based fuel was banned in Australia in 2002. The lead contamination in soil, the environment and home from previous heavy motor traffic can still result in increased lead levels in children.

High levels of exposure at one time can cause:

Ongoing exposure can cause:

Test for lead in any pre-1970 paint in your home and contact a professional for lead paint removal.
Avoid homes and child care near any known lead industry.
Limit the use and purchase of lead-based products and keep lead based products secure from children.
Wash your children's hands regularly to minimise the amount of dust and dirt that is transferred from their hands to the mouth.
Dust and mop with a damp cloth regularly to remove lead containing dust.
Encourage a diet with plenty of foods rich in iron, calcium and vitamin C, minimising lead absorption.
Be cautious of imported cosmetics, alternative medicines and toys.
Keep dust contaminated clothes from work places where there is lead out of the home and away from children.