Facilities managers should regularly inspect for lead hazards.
Although a home may be free of lead-based paint hazards, a child could still be exposed elsewhere.
Here is a list of places to look:
- Interior and exterior painted areas – Examine walls and surfaces to see if the paint is cracking, chipping, or peeling, and check areas on doors or windows where painted surfaces may rub together. The paint can flake off and contaminate nearby soil where children play.
- Surrounding areas – Be sure there are no large structures nearby with peeling or flaking paint.
- Playground equipment, toys and furniture – Older equipment can contain lead-based paint.
- Cleaning practices – The staff should wash any pacifiers, toys, or bottles that fall on the floor.