Radon/Asbestos/Lead/Mold

The Dubois County Health Department provides information and resources to protect yourself and your loved ones from environmental hazards in or around your home. There are several links below providing detailed information on various topics of Public Health concern. You can call the Health Department with any other questions specific to your situation. (812) 481-7055

1. Radon
Radon is a cancer-causing, radioactive gas. Radon comes from the natural (radioactive) breakdown of uranium in soil, rock and water and gets into the air you breathe. It can get into any type of building (homes, offices, and school) and result in a high indoor radon level. You and your family are most likely to get your greatest exposure at home, where you spend most of your time.

The Dubois County Health Department provides Digital Radon Detectors. These detectors are rented out for 7 days to Dubois County residents. After collecting data in your home with the device for 7 days, you can return the device to the health department. For more information on renting a Digital Radon Detector, please call 812-481-7055.

Additional Information About Radon

2. Asbestos
Individuals who are exposed to asbestos from working in factories, shipyards, mining operations, and other industries have greater risks for breathing high levels of asbestos fibers then others. This can lead to increased risk of:

Lung Cancer
Mesothelioma: a cancer of the lining of the chest and the abdominal cavity
Asbestosis: a condition in which the lungs become scarred with fibrous tissue

Additional Information About Asbestos

3. Mold

When mold spores land on a wet or damp area and begin to grow indoors, and can be difficult to irradiate unless the source of the moisture is eliminated. Molds have the potential to cause health problems, but do not affect every individual in the same way. Molds produce allergens (substances that can cause allergic reactions) and irritants. Inhaling or touching mold or mold spores may cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, but not to all. Allergic responses include hay fever-type symptoms, such as sneezing, runny nose, red eyes, and skin rash.

Additional Information on Mold

4. Lead
Lead exposure can come from various sources, put most commonly lead-based paint from older homes and lead-containing pipes in homes.

POSSIBLE LEAD HAZARDS IN THE HOME

Chips and debris from exterior lead paint
Fumes and ashes from burning painted wood or paper with colored ink
Lead paint on walls, window sills and woodwork
Unswept, unvacuumed and unmopped floors with lead dust and dirt
Toys with lead paint
Old furniture with lead paint
Food or liquids stored in lead glazed pottery or lead crystal decanters
Food contaminated by lead in soil or dust
Lead from dust and plaster created by home renovation or deterioration of surfaces
Soil in yards, playgrounds or gardens near lead painted buildings or busy streets
Lead water pipes or lead soldered joints
Exhaust fumes from cars, farm equipment or lawn mowers burning leaded gasoline

If you suspect you or your children may have been exposed to lead, our Public Health Nurses can perform a blood test to verify blood-lead levels.

Additional Information on Lead:

Indiana Department of Health

Indiana Lead Free