Why is NSW Health resisting lowering the blood lead investigation threshold in Broken Hill?

NSW Health cited concerns about changing the threshold for one area in isolation and potential unintended privacy consequences, despite acknowledging that lower levels can harm children.

What are the health risks of lead exposure for children in Broken Hill?

Even at levels of 3.5μg/dL, lead exposure can be associated with reduced IQ, attention span, learning disabilities, behavioral problems, impaired growth, and hearing loss.

What is the Greens MP's stance on the lead contamination issue in Broken Hill?

Greens MP Cate Faehrmann calls the funding for lead contamination response 'pathetic' and a 'national disgrace,' advocating for urgent government action and stricter mining standards.

Home / Health / NSW Health Ignores Lead Risk Advice

NSW Health Ignores Lead Risk Advice

11 Dec

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Summary

NSW Health resisted lowering blood lead investigation threshold for children.
Internal documents reveal lower lead levels harm children's developing brains.
Government funding for lead contamination response is called 'pathetic'.

NSW Health has faced criticism for resisting government advice to strengthen protections for children exposed to lead in Broken Hill. Internal documents revealed that lower blood lead levels than currently recognized can harm developing brains. Despite recommendations to lower the investigation threshold from 5μg/dL to 3.5μg/dL, aligning with international standards, NSW Health pushed back, citing issues with isolated area changes and potential privacy consequences.

The Greens MP Cate Faehrmann described the situation as a "national disgrace," condemning the "pathetic" level of funding for lead contamination response. Documents indicate that even at 3.5μg/dL, adverse effects such as learning disabilities and behavioral problems are associated with lead exposure. Concerns have been longstanding, with experts noting decades of revisiting issues without adequate action, and lead-rich dust from mining operations identified as a primary cause of exposure.