General information

1. General information about lead

   Paints containing lead had been gradually disappearing from the market from the 1950s until they were banned in 2006. In Switzerland, many buildings, especially those built before 1950, contain paints with very high lead content. Without adequate measures, the risk to occupants, especially children, or during work can be very high.

2. Health Effects

   Lead presents health hazards when ingested or when lead-containing dust is inhaled. Lead poisoning can cause disorders of the nervous and digestive systems, and anaemia.

   In addition, the toxic effects of lead are greater in children due to their impact on the development of the brain. This can cause intellectual retardation, learning difficulties, psychomotor disorders, sleep disorders and, in extreme cases, reduced rate of growth.

   In adults, lead poisoning can result in neurological disorders (peripheral paralysis, nerve damage to the arm and hand), abdominal pain, anaemia, high blood pressure, insomnia, headache or dizziness. Lead inhaled by the mother can also affect the health of the unborn child.