"Lead is a toxic metal that was used for many years in products found in and around our homes. Lead also can be emitted into the air from motor vehicles and industrial sources, and lead can enter drinking water from plumbing materials. Lead may cause a range of health effects, from behavioral problems and learning disabilities, to seizures and death. Children six years old and under are most at risk." - US Environmental Protection Agency

Lead was common in household paints prior to 1977 when it was banned by the Consumer Product Safety Commission. It can be found in lead plumbing and the solder used on newer copper pipes.  And until it was banned in the late 1970s, lead dust was a primary constituent of auto and truck exhaust. 

Using chemical analysis (Flame AA, TTLC, STLC and TCLP) Ellis can assess lead concentrations in soil, paint and in surface dust.  Where lead is found to be present, Ellis provides recommendations based on the client's intended action.  For example, a building to be demolished would need peeling and flaking lead paint stabilized prior to removal.  In some cases, lead has migrated into soils.  Ellis will provide a simple work plan to identify the horizontal and vertical extent of contamination, required volume of excavated soil, clearance criteria, etc.   Ellis maintains 2 State-Certified Lead Assessors on staff.