History of Lead in Jefferson County
Jefferson County, Missouri, has a long history with lead, with half of the county previously part of “The Old Lead Belt”. There are areas throughout the county contaminated by processes in lead production, such as lead smelting and tailings removal. All aspects of the environment, including air, soil, ground and surface water, and sediment, are impacted. The lead contamination has spread from its original sources due to natural events (such as floods) and man-made activities (such as the transportation and use of “fill dirt”).
In 1980, the Superfund Law was enacted, giving the EPA the authority to identify and clean up lead-contaminated areas across the country using funds from potentially responsible parties. Due to environmental lead contamination, especially in the Big River and its floodplain, the EPA has designated Jefferson County as a Superfund site for lead remediation.
Health Effects
Lead exposure (inhalation and oral ingestion) can cause a range of adverse health effects.
Lead exposure in children can cause:
- Behavioral disorders
- Learning disabilities
- Nervous system and kidney damage
- Hearing and speech problems
Lead exposure in adults can cause:
- Fertility problems
- High blood pressure
- Digestive problems
- Nerve disorders
- Memory and concentration problems
- Muscle and joint pain
Prevention
- Get your children tested for blood lead
- Wash your hands and toys
- Eat a diet rich in Iron, Calcium, and Vitamin C
- Have your soil tested
- Keep your home well-maintained
- Remove shoes before entering the house
- Renovate your home safely
Potential Sources of Lead
- Lead-based paint
- Soil
- Private well water
- Household dust
- Spices
- Pottery
- Toys
- Cosmetics
- Certain jobs and hobbies
Lead Testing
Soil and Private Well Water Testing
You can request free soil or private well water testing at your home. To begin, complete the EPA Property Screening Access Agreement. This form gives the EPA permission to collect samples from your property at no cost to you. After you complete the form, you can email it to lauren.jackson@tetratech.com or mail it to 938 S. Highway Dr., Fenton, MO 63026.
Once your form is received, the EPA will schedule a visit to take soil and/or water samples. When your results are ready, the EPA will contact you to review them and answer any questions you may have.
Blood Lead Testing
Find out more about blood testing and what an elevated blood level means on Health Screenings and Testing.
Home Lead Risk Assessment
If your child’s blood lead level is above 3.5 mcg/dL, your home qualifies for a free lead risk assessment. Our staff will call you to offer this service. During the assessment, a licensed lead risk assessor will visit your home to identify potential sources of lead exposure. This can include windows, paint, soil, water, toys, spices, and other items within your child’s reach. Homeowners remain present during the visit and receive education about potential lead hazards.
After the assessment, results are usually available in about two weeks. When the report is ready, our staff will follow up with you to explain the findings. If any hazards are identified, we will work with you to discuss options for reducing lead in your home.
Education
Lead in Private Wells Fact Sheet
Jefferson County Lead Superfund Site Fact Sheet
If you have additional questions, email lead@jeffcohealth.org.