Childhood Lead (Pb) Poisoning Program
Whenever a child has a confirmed blood lead level of 10 µg/dL or greater, or two consecutive test results between 5 µg/dL and 9µg/dL that are at least between one month to three months apart the Cape May County Health Department will conduct a hazard assessment of the child’s residence to identify lead sources. A lead hazard assessment includes a visual inspection of the child’s dwelling, testing of any defective paint as well as testing of impact, chewable and friction surfaces to determine the levels of lead (Pb) in the paint.  In addition, dust wipe sampling of floor surfaces and window sills is performed and sent to a certified laboratory to be analyzed for lead.    At times, if determined necessary, testing of soil for lead will also be performed. 

The department maintains two certified lead inspectors who are licensed to conduct lead hazard assessments.  Whenever a dwelling is determined to have lead contaminated dust, lead contaminated paint and/or lead contaminated soil, notification is given to the property owner to abate the conditions. Follow up visits are conducted with the potential for legal action if an abatement is not completed.
 
 Department Activity
This department currently visits and inspects 3-5 dwellings a year under the Childhood Lead (Pb) Poisoning Program.  This department does not conduct lead evaluations of dwellings that are for sale or rent. A list of private firms to conduct these inspections is available upon request or can be found on the NJ Department of Community Affairs website  https://www.nj.gov/dca/divisions/codes/offices/leadhazard_abatement.html