Heavy Metals

Heavy metals include lead, mercury, cadmium, and arsenic. Heavy metals are extremely toxic to the human body, especially the neurological system. Ingesting or breathing in heavy metal dust or vapors can also cause birth defects and chronic illnesses.

The United States has very stringent product safety clearances. Overseas products may not have the same safety protocols and may contain heavy metals among other adulterants.

If you think that you or someone else has been poisoned by heavy metal, call 1-800-222-1222. 

Lead

Follow these tips to avoid lead poisoning:

• Homes built before 1975 are likely to contain paint with lead; discard paint chips and wipe down window sills with a wet disposable cloth
• Avoid buying old baby furniture
• Never let children put inexpensive, foreign jewelry in their mouths
• Avoid buying vintage gifts for children
• Avoid buying or using dietary supplements and medicinal products, such as ayurvedic, from foreign countries
• Learn more about childhood lead poisoning at the NM Department of Health and NM Environmental Public Health Tracking

Mercury

Visit the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) website to learn more about mercury and what to do if there is a mercury spill. If the amount of mercury spilled is more than the size of a pencil eraser or more than the amount in a thermometer, it is best to have a professional expert clean it up. 

The New Mexico Poison and Drug Information Center were able to procure a mercury detector from the regional EPA. The detector is loaned out on request by the NM Department of health to be used in their investigations where mercury poisonings are suspected in homes and businesses.

Disposing of Heavy Metal Products

Visit the City of Albuquerque Household Hazardous Waste website for information on how to properly dispose of toxic waste.