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Lead testing

Lead exposure: health risks and legal responsibilities in New Zealand

Lead is a hazardous metal that can cause serious health effects when inhaled or ingested. It is commonly encountered in New Zealand during activities such as welding, paint removal, metal fabrication, battery handling, renovation of older buildings and demolition.

Exposure may lead to a wide range of health issues, including:
  • Obstructive lung disease;
  • Damage to the kidneys and central nervous system;
  • Neurological impairment and reproductive effects
  • Anaemia and, in severe cases, acute lead poisoning.
Lead testing

FAQs

  • When is lead testing required in New Zealand?

    Lead testing is typically required when there is a risk of exposure from building materials, paint, soil or workplace activities, particularly in older buildings or during renovation and maintenance works where lead-based products may be disturbed.

  • Do I need lead testing before refurbishment or demolition?

    In many cases, yes. Testing helps identify whether lead-containing materials are present so appropriate controls can be put in place before work begins, reducing health risks to workers and occupants.

Our lead testing services

ALS provides a complete range of lead assessment and monitoring services to support your regulatory responsibilities and help protect the health of workers, occupants and the wider community.

Occupational lead exposure monitoring:
  • Airborne lead testing – personal and static air sampling with results compared to the relevant Workplace Exposure Standards. This data is used to review the effectiveness of controls and confirm compliance with legislative requirements.
Residential and environmental lead assessments
  • Lead in indoor dust surveys – dust sampling within homes, schools, childcare centres and public buildings to assess potential exposure risks, particularly for young children.
  • Lead dust wipe testing – wipe samples collected from representative surfaces such as windowsills and high-contact zones to determine contamination levels and assist with clearance after remediation.
  • Lead paint testing – identification and assessment of lead-based paint prior to renovation, maintenance or removal activities, with reports including recommendations for safe work practices and containment measures.

All sample analysis is completed by an IANZ-accredited laboratory. Your technical report will include all findings, interpretation of results and clear guidance on corrective or remedial actions required.  

Whether you are managing an industrial site, commercial building or residential property, ALS provides reliable and compliant lead testing solutions to help ensure your environment remains safe and free from harmful levels of lead.

FAQs

  • What is lead testing and what does it involve?

    Lead testing involves sampling and analysing materials, dust, soil or air to determine whether lead is present and at what concentration. This helps assess exposure risk and guide safe management or remediation.

  • Where is lead commonly found in buildings or environments?

    Lead is commonly found in older paints, coatings, dust, soil, pipes and some industrial materials. Properties constructed or renovated before modern restrictions are more likely to contain lead-based products.

  • Why is lead testing important?

    Lead exposure can pose serious health risks, particularly through inhalation or ingestion of contaminated dust or particles. Testing helps identify risks early and ensures appropriate controls are implemented.

  • Who is responsible for managing lead risks in a workplace?

    The responsibility typically sits with the person conducting a business or undertaking (PCBU), who must identify hazards and ensure risks are managed to protect workers and others.

  • What happens if lead is detected?

    If lead is identified, control measures may be required such as containment, removal, cleaning or changes to work practices to minimise exposure and ensure safety.

 
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