Therefore, it is essential that everyone knows about the dangers of lead and ways to prevent lead poisoning. Lead is a common metal found naturally in the earth. The ancient Egyptians used lead in cosmetics and the ancient Romans used it to transport drinking water. Today lead is used in many products including batteries, solder, paint, fishing weights, pottery glaze, and ammunition. Lead has also been added to gasoline to reduce engine knocking.
Lead helps paint last longer and stick better to surfaces.
After 1978, paint with added lead was banned for use on the inside and outside of houses. Paint dust and chips from older homes may contain lead and could be inhaled or eaten accidentally. Small children are especially at risk because they may not wash their hands before they put them in their mouths. People may drink water contaminated by lead that has leached into the water supply. The Safe Drinking Water Act passed by the US Congress in 1986 put restrictions on the use of lead-containing materials for delivering drinking water.