Gauteng urges vigilance to prevent lead exposure in children

The Gauteng health department has urged communities to take precautions against lead exposure, warning the toxic substance can affect children’s brain development, learning abilities and overall growth.

The warning comes as the world observes International Lead Poisoning Prevention Week from October 18-24 under the theme “From Detection to Prevention”.

The department’s spokesperson Steve Mabona said exposure to lead can occur through contaminated dust, paint, toys and other materials containing the toxic substance.

Children are particularly vulnerable to its effects, which may not be immediately noticeable, making prevention and early identification essential.

“Anyone who suspects they or their children have been exposed to lead or are experiencing lead exposure-related symptoms should visit their nearest clinic or community health centre for a clinical assessment,” Mabona said.

Suspected sources of lead contamination should also be reported to Environmental Health Services for investigation and appropriate intervention.

“We remain committed to promoting public awareness, strengthening prevention efforts and protecting the health and well-being of communities through environmental health interventions,” said Mabona.

He urged parents, caregivers and communities to remain vigilant and take steps to minimise exposure, particularly in homes and environments where children spend most of their time.

Through its annual lead poisoning prevention awareness campaigns, the department educates communities, schools, early childhood development centres (ECDs), parents and caregivers about the sources of lead exposure, its health effects and ways to prevent contamination.

The department’s Environmental Health Services conducts tests on toys and paint, particularly at ECD centres, to identify potential sources of exposure.

It also investigates reported or suspected lead exposure incidents, identifies potential sources of contamination and recommends appropriate measures to reduce or eliminate exposure.

The procurement of two lead-testing machines is expected to further strengthen the department’s capacity to conduct testing and identify possible risks.

Though no lead poisoning cases have been reported in Gauteng over the past two years, Mabona said continued vigilance and public awareness remained essential to protect communities.

Members of the public have been advised to keep their living spaces clean and minimise exposure to dust that could contain lead.

Parents and caregivers should keep children away from toys suspected of containing lead and surfaces with peeling or deteriorating paint.

Workers who handle lead-containing materials have been urged to follow occupational health and safety procedures to prevent bringing contaminated dust into their homes.

This includes changing out of potentially contaminated clothing and footwear before entering their homes and washing thoroughly after handling materials that may contain lead.

Mabona said these precautions were important in reducing the risk of lead dust being transferred into living environments and exposing other household members.

He encouraged communities to take the necessary precautions and report potential sources of contamination to help prevent lead exposure, particularly among vulnerable groups such as children and pregnant women.