What is the clearance level for bare soil hazards in children's play areas according to DHS?

The clearance level for bare soil hazards in children's play areas, as specified by the Department of Health Services (DHS) in Wisconsin, is set at 400 parts per million (ppm). This standard is established to ensure that the risk of lead exposure from contaminated soil is minimized, particularly in environments where children play.

Children are particularly vulnerable to lead poisoning as they are more likely to ingest lead particles through hand-to-mouth activity, and contaminated soil can serve as a source of lead. The 400 ppm threshold is based on public health research and practices aimed at safeguarding children's health by ensuring that soil contamination remains at levels that are considered safe for use in recreational areas.

Maintaining this clearance level is crucial, as levels above this threshold could pose significant health risks. It reflects a balance in managing the environmental hazards associated with lead while considering practicality for land use in recreational spaces for children.