A pervasive environmental pollutant, lead can be found in polluted air, contaminated soil, dust, drinking water and lead-based paint. Harmful lead exposure can happen when lead-based paint is improperly removed. In the early 90’s the the Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services called lead the “number one environmental threat to the health of children in the United States.” Certain levels of lead in the body can impair mental and physical development.