Woombye State School families tested as lead contamination investigated

Flaking lead paint sparks a school-wide contamination investigation as families line up for testing following a student’s positive blood result in September.

A Sunshine Coast school has been combed for lead contamination and three families have lined up for testing after a child’s blood lead levels prompted a building closure.

The Woombye State School notified parents on September 30, 2022, that a student had tested positive to “elevated blood lead levels”.

The school closed its D-block and moved the tuckshop following the revelation there was flaking lead-based paint in the building.

A Sunshine Coast Hospital and Health Service public health unit spokeswoman said three families had contacted Queensland Health for testing.

A Department of Education spokeswoman said “as a purely precautionary measure” the external and internal surfaces of every building at the school were inspected.

“Where necessary, samples have been taken for testing,” she said.

“Regular and comprehensive environmental testing will be conducted in and around Block D and surrounding areas.”

The education department spokeswoman said a lead contamination hotline for the school community was also set up on October 17, 2022, and parents were notified through a Facebook post and letter.

She said contact with the family of the student who sparked the incident was “regular” and the department was providing support.

The spokeswoman said buildings constructed before 1970 generally contained lead-based paint and buildings built between 1970-75 were considered “likely” to contain “some” lead-based paint.

“Lead in paint is a problem only if it is damaged or disturbed,” she said.

“Paint in good condition that is not flaking or chalking, or is covered by well-maintained lead-free paint, is not a hazard in itself.”

The public health unit spokeswoman said the unit continued to assist the education department and access to the D-block remained restricted.

The spokeswoman said concerned parents should contact their doctor first.

“However, if they are unable to see their GP, Queensland Health can facilitate testing at no cost to families,” she said.

Phone the Sunshine Coast public health unit on 1300 017 190 in business hours.

Originally published as Woombye State School families tested as lead contamination investigated