Alarm Sounded about Lead in Candles
Lead particulate emitted from candles are being released into
a "closed loop" ventilation structure (homes), this
is not an ambient release but an indoor release wherein levels
of lead particulate (not to mention VOC, dioxin and phthalate
emissions) can climb to alarming levels since this submicron particulate
can stay airborne for an average of 10 days...each subsequent
burning simply contributes to deteriorating internal air quality
in this environment and the total body burden of lead from these
exposures. This is an environment where children and mothers/caretakers
are spending 90 percent of their time. Nearly 100% of airborne
lead particulate is absorbed as it is breathed in, compared to
15 to 40 percent of lead that is ingested. Therefore airborne
lead particles are even more dangerous to children (and mothers)
than items that are mouthed or chewed.
1999 statistics showed that 7 out of 10 homes burn candles on
a regular basis. Candles are not labelled with an ingredient listing,
and there are no regulations governing their ingredients.
Natural Life Magazine, Nov/Dec 99
www.life.ca