Cincinnati Lead Poisoning Prevention Program

Lead and lead poisoning contributes to a variety of physical, social and environmental problems that can have a huge, negative impact on Cincinnati families and individuals.

Lead is a metal with no health benefit. Lead is dangerous to persons of all ages and can damage kidneys, red blood cells and the nervous system.

However, lead is especially dangerous to children 6 years of age and younger. Even the smallest amounts of lead can interfere with a child’s brain development resulting in a permanent reduction in intelligence and may cause behavioral and learning problems.

Homes built prior to 1978 may have lead paint which can deteriorate and create leaded dust that can poison a child. Most children are poisoned in their own homes. The only way to protect children from lead poisoning is to remove lead hazards from their environment; and improper repair or renovation can actually make the problem worse.

Paint Chip Testing

We can test your household chipping paint for lead. To have your paint chips tested:

1. Collect several nickel- to quarter-sized (or larger) chips in a plastic zip-top bag. Use a different bag for each location where you're collecting the paint chips.
2.  Label each bag with your name, phone number and the location where you took the paint chips.
3. Bring the chips to the Lead Poisoning Prevention Program at 3301 Beekman St., Cincinnati, OH 45225.
4. Leave the paint chips with the front receptionist.
5. A staff member will contact you with the results. Please allow one to two business days for test results.

Assistance To Remove Lead

It is with this in mind that the Cincinnati Lead Poisoning Prevention Program staff of licensed medical and lead professionals strives to prevent lead poisoning in children via education and other primary prevention methods, but also seeks to investigate the sources of lead poisoning when it occurs so as to limit and thus minimize the negative effects of exposure.

The Cincinnati Health Department has a federal grant that can help reduce lead paint and dust hazards in residential properties. Our goal is to help create lead-safe housing for low-income families with children under the age of 6.