EPA Pushes for Tougher Airborne Lead Standards

May 2008

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has proposed a strengthening of the health and safety standard for airborne lead. The agency claims that the current standards do not adequately safeguard public health from the dangers of lead exposure.

The current lead health standard has not been changed since it was established 30 years ago, and although lead pollution has declined since that time, the EPA says that air quality is still a problem. The agency asserts that the primary culprits are industrial sources. The EPA's proposal would reduce allowable airborne lead concentrations by up to 93 percent and is expected to be final by mid-September.

Under the EPA's proposal, states or local governments must find ways to reduce lead emissions if air is found to contain more than .30 micrograms of lead per cubic meter. Lead can be ingested or inhaled as it settles out of the air, and when it enters the body it is quickly absorbed by the bloodstream. Lead exposure can lead to damage to the nervous system, learning disabilities, lower IQs, and is especially damaging to children. It can also lead to heart problems, high blood pressure, anemia, and memory loss in adults.