Lead is a toxic metal that was used for years in various products. Exposure to lead can occur through air, water, and soil pollution; it can cause health effects ranging from behavioral problems and learning disabilities to seizures and death. Damage can occur to brain, kidneys, the nervous system and red blood cells.
At UC Denver, lead may be present in paint on older structures and equipment, electronic components, radiation shielding materials, and within older water pipes and solder. To ensure that these materials don’t present a hazard, controls and precautions should be employed.