The Maine CDC works to detect and address exposures to lead hazards. Through strategic inspections and abatement, as well as public education campaigns and testing, the Maine CDC is leading efforts to permanently eliminate lead exposure to children in Maine.
Free Lead Dust Tests
Maine CDC offers free home lead dust test kits to families with young children or children on the way. Order a free lead dust test kit. Watch our video to see how to test.
Parents
Dust from lead paint found in older homes and apartments is almost always the cause of lead poisoning. Maine requires all children at ages 1 and 2 be tested for lead by their provider. To prevent poisoning, learn how to be safe from lead using lead safety tips by visiting Parents.
Home and Property Owners
Dust from lead paint is the most common causes of lead poisoning in Maine. Find out how you can take steps to prevent lead poisoning during home renovation and repairs by visiting Home and Property Owners.
Jobs and Hobbies
Even if your home does not put your child at risk for lead poisoning, your job or hobby might. Lead dust from hobbies and jobs can easily be carried into a child's environment. Read about Don't Take Lead Home From Your Job! (PDF).
Health Care Providers
Follow Maine CDC guidelines and test all children for lead poisoning at 1 and 2 years of age. Effective October 1, 2022, providers should confirm all capillary blood lead levels 3.5 ug/dL or higher with venous samples.
Data
The Maine Tracking Network publishes data dashboards for a variety of health and environmental concerns in Maine. Visit the Maine Tracking Network website for a display of data on lead poisoning, blood lead screening tests, and risk factors.
Lead in School Drinking Water
The only way to know if there is lead in drinking water is to test for it. Read about Lead in School Drinking Water (PDF) and visit the Maine Tracking Network to see lead levels by school.
Resources
Download tipsheets in multiple languages about how to prevent childhood lead poisoning by visiting Resources.