Lead Poisoning and Prevention

soilSHOP

Collect soil from several spots in the area you want tested. For garden areas, dig 6 inches deep and collect all 6 inches of soil. For play areas, collect soil from about 2 inches deep. Mix soils from all spots in the specific area but keep your garden and play areas separated. Put the sample in a container and remove large debris. (If you want 2 areas tested, you’ll need 2 plastic bags.) If the soil is wet, dry the soil (e.g., leave it in the sun) before you package it in a sealed, clear plastic bag.

How to collect a soil sample video

Safe gardening practices:

Maintain a ground cover of grass or mulch

Use raised bed gardens with a minimum depth of 18 inches

Remove/replace/remediate contaminated soil

Practice good personal habits and gardening practices, e.g., wear gloves when gardening, wash hands after gardening, wash produce before eating, and remove shoes outside to limit tracking dirt from garden into house

Set a good example for children to practice these healthy habits