Lead is a toxic metal whose widespread use has caused environmental contamination and extensive public health problems in many parts of the world. Lead can have profound and permanent adverse health effects on children. While the greatest impacts are on children, lead also causes harm in adults, including workers. There is no known level of lead exposure that is considered to be safe. Recent reductions in the use of lead in petrol, paint, plumbing and solder have resulted in substantial reductions in the levels of lead measured in humans in many countries, however significant sources of lead exposure still remain. Lead paint has been and is still being used for decorating the interiors and exteriors of homes and schools, on public and commercial buildings and structures such as bridges, as well as on toys, furniture and playground equipment. Exposure to lead from lead paint can occur during manufacture and application and will remain for many years to come as the paint deteriorates or is removed during painting and demolition. One of the most common and most concentrated remaining sources of lead exposure for children is from exposure to paint dust. Paints containing lead are still widely manufactured and sold for use in many developing countries of the world.