Management of exposures to lead and mercury in BC is a responsibility shared by the BCCDC, regional health authorities, and clinicians.
In British Columbia, all publicly-funded tests for lead and mercury are reportable to the BCCDC. Environmental Health Services at the BCCDC, in cooperation with regional health authorities, follows up on cases of elevated lead and mercury when needed, and investigates unusual results that might indicate a threat to public health.
The BCCDC also supports clinicians in managing and investigating exposures to lead and mercury. Guidance is included here in the attached documents. The Drug and Poison Information Centre is also able to provide support and guidance to clinicians managing exposures to lead and mercury.
BCCDC studied the extent to which exposure to lead in the drinking water of BC’s daycares and schools adversely impacts the health of children and assessed the need for and options available to reduce lead in the drinking water of daycares and schools.
