Environmental Lead Inspections

Bloomfield Health Department: Protecting Our Children from Lead Hazards

The Bloomfield Health Department is dedicated to safeguarding the health and well-being of our children. Lead poisoning can pose serious health risks, so we offer lead risk assessments for children with elevated blood lead levels.

Where Does Lead Come From?

Lead paint was banned for residential use in 1978. However, homes built before that year are more likely to contain lead-based paint. Even repainted houses may still have lead paint underneath. As lead paint ages, it can chip, flake, and create a fine dust invisible to the naked eye. When children ingest or inhale this dust, they can become lead-poisoned.

What We Do:

Identifying Elevated Blood Lead Levels: We consider elevated blood lead levels in children between 12 months and 5 years old to be:

• Between 5-9 micrograms per deciliter (ug/dL) twice within a one-to-four-month period.

• Over ten ug/dL on a single test.

Investigating the Source: Upon receiving notification of an elevated blood lead level, we work with our nurses to find the source within the child's environment.

Environmental Intervention:

X-ray fluorescence (XRF) Analyzer: We use state-of-the-art equipment to pinpoint the presence of lead-based paint, even beneath layers of new paint.

Dust Wipe Testing: This technique identifies lead dust on floors and windowsills. Samples are sent to a certified lab for analysis.

Information Packet: Once testing results are available, we provide an informative packet detailing our findings.

Lead Abatement:

Licensed Lead Abatement Contractors: New Jersey law mandates that only licensed contractors can perform lead remediation work.

Collaboration: Our lead risk assessors work closely with homeowners and contractors to ensure lead abatement adheres to strict timeframes, permitting processes, notification requirements, and safety procedures.

Clearance Testing: After complete lead abatement, a third-party technician takes clearance dust wipe samples. A lab analyzes these samples, and if they meet safety standards, the home is considered "Lead Safe."

We Care About Your Child's Health:

The Bloomfield Health Department prioritizes the health and safety of our children. If you have questions about lead hazards or your child's blood lead levels, please contact us at (973)-680-4024 to speak with a Public Health Nurse or a Lead Inspector/Risk Assessor.