Lead Poisoning Prevention

What we do

Nevada County Public Health's Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention program provides education to community schools, medical practitioners, and childcare centers regarding blood lead screening, lead exposure risks and resources.

  • Children under age 6 are most at risk for lead poisoning.
  • Prevent lead poisoning. Get your home tested. Get your child tested. Get the facts!
  • Was your house painted before 1978? Protect your family from lead exposure.
  • Remodeling the home? Renovate right with lead-safe work practices.
  • Talk to your health department about testing home paint and dust for lead.


Where to get tested

Providers who provide Child Health & Disability Prevention (CHDP) physicals:

Blood lead testing is performed on children around one year and again at two years of age.

Lead logo-160

Today, childhood lead poisoning is considered the most preventable environmental disease among young children, yet approximately half a million U.S. children have blood lead levels above 3.5 micrograms per deciliter, the reference level at which Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), recommends public health actions be initiated. A simple blood test can prevent permanent damage that will last a lifetime. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and CDC are committed to eliminating this burden to public health.

Water testing

Water testing for lead can be done through Cranmer Engineering 530-273-7284
Tap Water Fact Sheet - English & Spanish (PDF)

Contractors certified to safely remove lead paint

Contractors State Licensing Board
Lead-Certified Professionals in California

Lead Resources

Consumer Product Safety Commission - Recalls  (including Lead Recalls) 
Food Recalls CDPH Food Safety Program - Lead Recalls

Additional Contact Information

National Lead Information Center: 1-800-424-LEAD [5323]
Safe Drinking Water Hotline: 1-800-426-4791
US Environmental Protection Agency