A third-party report commissioned by the provincial government has reconfirmed that there is a low health risk when it comes to lead found in soil in some Winnipeg neighbourhoods.
Although the overall risks to Manitobans are low and primary sources of lead contamination have been eliminated some children in three Winnipeg neighbourhoods have blood lead levels above the levels of concern.
A number of recommendations were made in the report including making blood lead levels in excess of established guidelines reportable under the Public Health Act.
The report also recommends that the province establish a way to communicate a single clear effective message about how to mitigate potential risks. The report suggests the establishment of a dedicated website or social media platform with constant updates to share the information.
An action plan is also recommended for Weston Elementary School. Elevated lead levels are still in the soil according to the report. It recommends that students, parents, and staff are made aware of the potential concerns related to lead in soils on the school grounds.
It is also recommended that sand and gravel in the playground area be replaced with a soil barrier and rubberized playground surface material. Exposed soil surfaces should be covered in mulch, sod, or groundcover to prevent direct access to soils and the generation of dust.
© News4.ca 2020
