Reduce the threat to public health from the presence of hazardous waste and hazardous materials in the environment. Reported incidents of elevated blood lead levels as percentage of the total tested population. Ninety-five percent of the housing units in Maryland built before 1950 contain lead paint. Swallowing or breathing lead can poison children.
Lead poisoning can slow a child's development and cause learning disabilities and behavior problems.
The lead paint hazard treatment program was fully implemented in February 1996. As more properties undergo lead hazard treatments, the number of detected cases is expected to diminish. A reduction in the percentage of children screened exceeding lead poison standards to the lowest possible level.