HOME CONDITION AND LEAD LEVELS - A CASE-STUDY FROM THE HOMES OF PRESCHOOLERS IN MT PLEASANT, MICHIGAN

This study assessed the relationship between soil and dust lead (Pb) l evels and building material, exterior and interior (including window s ill) condition, pet ownership, and the presence of a fireplace. Four d ust samples and one soil sample were collected from the homes of 42 pr eschoolers in Mt. Pleasant, Michigan. The results of atomic absorption spectroscopy revealed that median Pb levels for both soil and dust we re two to ten times higher for homes with wood exteriors. Significant variation in soil and dust Pb levels also occurred as a function of ho me wall condition. Poorly maintained homes had the highest Pb levels. No consistent significant relationship was observed between home Pb le vels and a) the presence of pets and b) the presence of a fireplace. O n 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.