Home condition and lead levels: A case study from the homes of pre-schoolers in mt. pleasant, michigan

Mark A. Francek, Vicki Pan Pan, J. H. Hanko, Bradley Makimaa Makimaa

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

3 Scopus citations

Abstract

This study assessed the relationship between soil and dust lead (Pb) levels and building material, exterior and interior (including window sill) condition, pet ownership, and the presence of a fireplace. Four dust samples and one soil sample were collected from the homes of 42 preschoolers in Mt. Pleasant, Michigan. The results of atomic absorption spectroscopy revealed that median Pb levels for both soil and dust were two to ten times higher for homes with wood exteriors. Significant variation in soil and dust Pb levels also occurred as a function of home wall condition. Poorly maintained homes had the highest Pb levels. No consistent significant relationship was observed between home Pb levels and a) the presence of pets and b) the presence of a fireplace. On the whole, households participating in the study had low Pb levels. This finding can be attributed to excellent home upkeep by the part of study participants.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)1879-1886
Number of pages8
JournalJournal of Environmental Science and Health. Part A: Environmental Science and Engineering and Toxicology
Volume29
Issue number9
DOIs
StatePublished - Oct 1 1994

Keywords

  • Michigan
  • dust
  • lead
  • soil

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