Call (419) 213-2013 to schedule an appointment for free lead screening.

Lead Poisoning

No safe blood lead level in children has been identified. A child with a blood lead level of 3.5 to less than 10 micrograms per deciliter is defined as having an elevated blood lead level. “Lead Poisoning” is defined as a confirmed level of lead in human blood of 10 micrograms per deciliter (10 µg/dl) or greater.

Lead exposure can affect nearly every system in the body.  Because lead exposure often occurs with no obvious symptoms, it frequently goes unrecognized. Learn more about hiring a licensed lead inspector here.

State Law Mandates

State law mandates blood lead screening for all “high-risk” children 72 months (6 years) of age and below. A “High risk” child is defined as a child that:

  • Lives in, or visits, a house or facility built before 1978 with recent, ongoing, or planned renovation/remodeling. (This includes a daycare center, preschool, or home of a babysitter or relative.)
  • Lives in or visits a house that has peeling, chipping, dusting, or chalking paint.
  • Has a sibling or playmate who has or did have lead poisoning.
  • Frequently comes in contact with an adult who has a hobby or works with lead. Examples are construction, welding, pottery, painting, and casting ammunition.

Or any child residing in one of the following Toledo/Lucas County zip codes:

Note: Every child on Medicaid is also mandated by the State to be tested for lead.

For an easy-to-follow handout to share with your pediatrician click here.

Resources

    DEPARTMENT INFO

    635 N. Erie St.
    Toledo, OH 43604
    419.213.4100