Abstract: OBJECTIVE: Exposure to lead-based paint or material has been found
to impact children's cognitive and behavioral development at blood lead levels
far below current standards. The purpose of the project was to screen for lead
in toy items in daycare centers in order to raise awareness of inside
environmental lead exposures and minimize lead-based exposures for
children. METHODS: Occupational therapy students in a service learning class
tested for lead in ten daycare or public centers using the XRF Thermo
Scientific Niton XL3t, a method accepted by the Consumer Product Safety
Commission (CPSC). RESULTS: A total of 460 items were tested over a two-month period
for an average of 66 toys per setting. Fifty six (56) items tested > 100
ppm, which represented 12% of the entire sample. Items with high lead levels
included selected toys constructed with lead-based paint, lead metals, plastics
using lead as a color enhancer, and decorative objects. CONCLUSION: While the actual number of lead-based products is small,
the cumulative exposure or habitual use may pose an unnecessary risk to
children. Indoor exposures occurred for all day care centers regardless of
socio-economic levels. Recommendations to minimize exposures are provided.
Keywords: Childhood health promotion, environmental hazards, lead testing, occupational therapy
DOI: 10.3233/WOR-121492
Journal: Work, vol. 44, no. Supplement 1, pp. 29-38, 2013
