Despite its toxic reputation, lead has been used in paint for hundreds of years. Why? Because lead is the only element that offers all the qualities that people want to see in paint. It makes the paint mildew resistant and anti-corrosive, is easier to apply, helps it to dry faster, produces a brighter color, and is less expensive than other options. However, the risks behind this quietly creeping hazard probably outweigh its economic and aesthetic value.

The dangers of exposure to lead have been known for more than 300 years. Benjamin Franklin and Charles Dickens both wrote essays about the devastating effects of lead poisoning. Researchers studying bone fragments have determined that lead poisoning was the cause of Ludwig von Beethoven’s physical and mental illness from the time he was in his teens and eventually into death. Some historians believe that lead poisoning is responsible for the fall of the Roman Empire, their upper classes suffering symptoms consistent with lead poisoning; they used lead to sweeten their food, collect their water, and prevent their wine from turning into vinegar. The Germans banned Roman wine and food imports in the 1600’s.

Researchers speculate that the sweet taste of lead is the very reason why young children are likely to eat paint chips and gnaw on protruding painted surfaces, making them very high risk for poisoning. While many other industrialized countries banned the use of lead paint in homes, schools, and hospitals early in the 20 th century, the United States didn’t begin doing so until 1970. Therefore, it is still a hazard found in older houses and apartments in this country, victimizing the youngest and most vulnerable of the population.

Additionally, recent news has disclosed that many toys produced in China for export contain lead paint. While China has stricter regulations prohibiting lead paint use in toy production than the United States does, there is little enforcement. The significant pressure put on the manufacturers to keep costs down has driven many to use the less expensive option offered by lead paint with little risk of getting caught.

Occupational and environmental exposure through the use of lead paint continues to be an issue of concern for adults as well. In the United States, leaded paint is used as a protective agent on metal bridges and bridge components, road signs, and road markings. Consequently, workers are still exposed to the toxic effects of leaded paint.

While litigation has been attempted to hold the companies producing leaded paint responsible for the suffering of the end users, none have been successful. It is apparent that more restrictive legislation will be required to protect the environment and quality of life for the many people exposed to lead paint on a daily basis.