As the debate about lead in old paint is heating up south of the border,  it is important to keep aware of the issues faced by Toronto Painters here.
Lead is a harmful substance that was used widely by paint manufacturers. It improved paint performance and durability.
The problem was that the lead in paint was very harmful to humans and especially children younger than six years old. It is known to  affect growth in children and be harmful to other organs of the body. Despite the well known effects on children,  it can harm adults as well, especially the reproductive system of males and females.
Paint manufacturers replaced some of the benefits lead had with new and less harmful substances.
The problem is, many buildings,  the Greater Toronto Area included, still have lead under many layers of paint.
When construction occurs in older buildings, care needs to be taken in not disturbing the old layers of paint as paint chips and Lead dust can be ingested and hurt the residents or workers of the facilities. This is more prevalent when renovating and Painting Daycare Centres, Learning Facilities and Community Centres where children are present. 
If you need more information call 416 733-7767 or request  a consultation by a responsible Paint Contractor in the Toronto area.