Lead Poisoning Cases on the Rise in China

Several high profile cases of children being poisoned from lead exposure around smelting plants leaves hundreds hospitalized.

Westmont, NJ, September 2nd, 2009

Over the last couple of years there have been several high profile cases of imported children’s products from China containing dangerous levels of lead. Those cases renewed public interest in making sure consumer products met all federal safety guidelines.

The problem of lead exposure from Chinese products is not just limited to the United States. In China there have been similar cases of contaminated products and environmental contamination around factories and processing plants. Recently, Chinese state media reported two large smelting plants caused over 2000 children to have elevated lead levels and several hundred of those required hospitalization.

These recent reports are just the latest exposing the high cost of economic development in China. Although China does have some strict environmental regulations, their enforcement has been inconsistent at best. In the U.S. the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) stated, “To reduce your child’s exposure to lead, get your child checked, have your home tested and fix any hazards you may have.”

Lead can sometimes be found in children’s products, such as toys and jewelry. Homes and water systems that have lead pipes or lead solder can also introduce lead through drinking water. Many manufacturing processes utilize lead and lead dust can contaminate surrounding areas.

EMSL Analytical, one of the nation’s largest environmental laboratories, has a long history of detecting the presence of lead and other heavy metals in products and our environment. “The dangers associated with lead poisoning, especially with children, is serious,” reported Joe Frasca, Senior Vice President at EMSL. “Children with high levels of lead in their bodies can suffer from stunted growth, learning problems, damaged nervous systems and diminished brain functions.”

To help educate the public about the dangers of lead, EMSL has made available a ‘Lead in Homes’ poster that can be ordered online. To learn more about lead testing or to order the poster please visit www.EMSL.com, call (800)220-3675 or email info@EMSL.com.

About EMSL Analytical, Inc.
EMSL Analytical is a nationally recognized and locally focused provider of environmental and materials testing services and products to professionals and the general public. The company has an extensive list of accreditations from leading organizations as well as state and federal regulating bodies.

Contact Information

Joe Frasca

Senior Vice President, Marketing

EMSL Analytical, Inc.

Contact via E-mail