“The brighter the color, the more dangerous it is.†This saying might not only apply to mushrooms but could also be true for the paint in your home. While vibrant colors can enhance your living space, they may also pose hidden risks to your health and that of your family.
According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), any paint containing more than 10 milligrams of lead per square centimeter is considered lead-based. In China, the national standard limits soluble lead in interior wall coatings to no more than 90 mg/kg. Despite these regulations, reports about lead-contaminated paints continue to surface. A survey by the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention found that one-third of children in China have elevated lead levels, with household decoration materials being a major source of exposure.
Lead compounds like red ochre, yellow ochre, and lead white are commonly used in paints to maintain their vivid colors. According to Song Guangsheng, director of the National Indoor Environment and Product Quality Supervision and Inspection Center, brighter colors often mean higher concentrations of heavy metals like lead, which can be harmful to human health. Wang Yiqiang, deputy secretary-general of the China Building Decoration Association, added that tests showed orange paint has the highest lead content, followed by yellow, green, and brown. In addition to lead, paints may also contain other toxic metals like cadmium and mercury.
Long-term exposure to lead—whether through the air, on surfaces, or via skin contact—can lead to serious health issues such as anemia, memory loss, joint pain, and even intestinal cramps or muscle spasms. Song Guangsheng pointed out that many children tend to touch walls or objects and then put their fingers in their mouths, increasing the risk of lead poisoning.
However, there’s no need to panic. With modern manufacturing techniques, lead in paint is less likely to become airborne. As long as you choose paint that meets national standards, the health risks are generally low. So, how can you pick a safer, eco-friendly paint? Zhang Ren, secretary-general of the Residential Decoration Committee at the China Building Decoration Association, shared some practical tips:
Opt for well-known brands. Reputable brands undergo strict quality checks and testing, making them more reliable. Be cautious of marketing terms like “eco-friendly†or “natural,†which are often just sales tactics. Always check the product’s test report before purchasing.
Choose water-based paints whenever possible. Oil-based paints often contain harmful substances like heavy metals, while water-based options are healthier and more environmentally friendly. If you can, use water-based paint for decoration.
Use lighter colors, especially in children’s rooms. Bright colors may look appealing, but they can increase the risk of heavy metal exposure. Try to use less paint, and if needed, go for softer tones.
Good-quality paint should flow smoothly into a fan shape when applied. When stirred, it should form a thick, elastic film that resists cracking. Low-quality paint, on the other hand, tends to dry quickly and form a thin, fragile layer with a strong odor. It’s best to stick to the same brand when buying paint, as mixing different brands can cause color inconsistencies.
Turbine Flowmeter,Turbine Flow Meters,Electromagnetism Flow Meter,Turbine Wheel Flow Meter
Jingsu Huaerwei Science and Technology Group Co.,Ltd , https://www.hewflowmeter.com