The Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program provides services to prevent and reduce the harmful effects of lead poisoning among the County of San Luis Obispo children under the age of six, as well as other high-risk children. This includes increasing awareness regarding the hazards of lead exposure, reducing lead exposure, and increasing the number of children assessed and appropriately blood tested for lead poisoning.
Who can use this service?
Testing is available for children, ages 0 to 21.
Where is lead found?
Lead can be found in all parts of our environment – the air, the soil, the water, and even inside our homes. Children are exposed to lead from different sources (such as paint, gasoline, solder, toys, ceramics and other consumer products) and through different pathways (such as air, food, water, dust, and soil). Although there are several exposure sources, lead-based paint is the most widespread and dangerous high-dose source of lead exposure for young children.
Additional sources of lead include candy, jewelry, tableware, hobbies, plumbing, occupations, and home/folk remedies.
Who is at risk?
Lead is particularly dangerous to children because their growing bodies absorb more lead than adults do, and their brains and nervous systems are more sensitive to the damaging effects of lead. Babies also often put their hands and other objects into their mouths that can have lead on them from dust, soil or other sources. Exposure is also a concern for pregnant women because it can result in exposure to their developing baby.
Is there a charge for this service?
Education and outreach on lead poisoning prevention is provided free of charge. For blood lead testing, you may be eligible for no or low cost services if you have Medi-Cal, Medicare or certain insurances. For all others, please see the lab fee page.
When and where is this service offered?
This service is available Monday - Friday 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. by appointment at the locations listed on this page.
Location, directions and hours of operation
Click on location name to show hours of operation, directions and phone information
2191 Johnson Avenue San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
286 South 16th Street Grover Beach, CA 93433
Tel: (805) 473-7050
Fax: (805) 474-7473
805 4th Street, Suite 201-202 Paso Robles, CA 93446
Tel: (805) 237-3050
Fax: (805) 237-3057