A recent study sponsored by European Union has found high levels of lead in paints used in seven Asian countries. The study called “The Asian Regional Paint Report” has analysed at least 803 paints, representing 404 brands.
The effort is a part of ‘The Asian lead Paint Elimination Project’ being implemented by IPEN-A Toxic Free Future, in seven countries in Asia, including India, Bangladesh, Indonesia, Nepal, Philippines, Sri lanka and Thailand.
Of the paint samples analysed, at least 90 paints were from Bangladesh, 78 in Indonesia besides the remaining from Nepal, Philippines, Sri lanka and Thailand. More than 250 samples from 147 brands were analyzed in India. The paints used in the analysis were purchased in local markets and stores that are being frequented by the general public.
The Project is aimed at elimination of lead from paints and raise awareness in business entrepreneurs and consumers on the adverse health impacts on the lead based decorative paints, particularly on children aged below six. Toxics link is a partner in India.
“It is well established that there is no safe blood level of lead, especially for children and developing fetuses, so it is very shocking to find such high levels of lead in paints being sold throughout Asia. Safe, cost effective alternatives to lead have been in use for many years, so there is absolutely no reason for continuing to add lead to paint products in Asia,” said Satish Sinha, Associate Director, Toxics link.
The study comes in the wake of the recent WHO report that has highlighted the effects of low level lead exposure which includes reduced intelligence and retarded mental development even when there are no obvious or clinical signs of lead poisoning. These symptoms in children are lifelong and irreversible.
Grim picture
l90% paints analyzed had lead levels above 90 parts per million (ppm) and would not be permitted for sale in most industrialised countries
l44% contained extremely dangerous levels of lead above 10,000 ppm Overall, at least a quarter of the paints from all countries had lead content above 10,000 ppm
lOverall, brightly coloured paints (red, yellow) contained the highest lead levels
Paints with low levels of lead were available in all markets at prices comparable to the leaded products, suggesting that the technology exists to produce cost effective, lead-safe products
lNone of the paint cans containing lead stated this on the label or explained the hazards associated with lead