H.E.T.L. Lead Program

Child Playing With Old Paint Picture
Lead based paint in older homes is the primary
cause of childhood lead poisoning in the United States

The Blood Lead Program at the Health and Environmental Testing Laboratory (HETL) plays a vital role in the campaign to eliminate blood lead poisoning in children. The results of our testing allow physicians and public health workers to make timely and crucial decisions for children with lead poisoning. In addition to testing individual specimens we collate patient demographic information to help facilitate an epidemiological mapping and statistical analysis program that we share with the Center for Disease Control in Atlanta, Georgia. Essentially, a map is created from the data collected and high prevalence areas and the children that live within these areas are pinpointed. This in turn allows the many people involved in the Maine Lead Poison Prevention Program to increase the screening and follow up care of the children that are at the greatest risk. The Blood Lead Program at the HETL is constantly monitoring itself to assure that physicians, health care workers and ultimately the children are receiving the best and most effective service available.

Childhood Lead Screening and Management Guidelines (PDF)

Maine Childhood Lead Prevention Program

HETL BLOOD LEAD SECTION Contacts:

Supervisor: Brian Bernier phone: (207) 287- 6366  or   (207) 441-7592
email: brian.bernier@maine.gov

For Blood Lead Reports issues or questions please contact:
Blood Lead Laboratory Section: (207) 287-6649

For faster service,  submitters can request that all blood lead reports be faxed. Please complete HETL’s FAX Authorization Form.
  • FAX completed form (pdf) to:
    • Health and Environmental Testing Laboratory
      attn Rick Danforth @ 207-287-6832
  • Or

  • Mail completed form (pdf) to:

    • Health and Environmental Testing Laboratory
      221 State Street Station 12
      Augusta, Maine 04333
      attn Rick Danforth

For Blood Lead Billing issues or questions please contact:
Rebecca St. Pierre:  (207) 287-1701

For Blood Lead Testing Kits/Supplies orders or issues please contact:
HETL administration (207) 287-2727

LEAD TESTING FEES

Blood Lead $20.00
Environmental Lead Dust Wipes $16.00