Blood lead notification level
The notification process is triggered when a person returns a blood lead test that shows an elevated blood lead level.
When a blood lead level is reported
If blood test results meet or exceed the notification level, the health practitioner or laboratory must report it to their local medical officer of health for follow-up.
The notification level was reduced to 0.24 or greater micromoles per litre of blood (µmol/l) on 9 April 2021. It was 0.48 or greater µmol/l before this.
This allows the source of the lead exposure to be identified and health risks managed.
- Public health services can follow up notifications and manage non-occupational exposures.
- If medical officers of health believe a case is due to workplace exposure, they must notify WorkSafe New Zealand for follow-up.
Lead-based paint in older houses is the most common source of household lead exposure. Over time this paint can deteriorate or be removed in renovations. If not managed properly people can be exposed to it.
How you get exposed to lead
Lead is a naturally occurring metal that may be found in the home or work environment. Lead gets into your body through food, water and air. You either eat or drink it or breathe in dust particles.
Lead-based paint in older houses is the most common source of household lead exposure. Over time this paint can deteriorate or be removed in renovations. If not managed properly people can be exposed to it.
Once in the body, lead circulates in the blood and can be stored in the bones and organs. More information is on our lead poisoning page.