In a child play area, what is the maximum allowed amount of lead present?

The maximum allowed amount of lead present in a child play area is set at 400 parts per million (ppm). This standard is established to protect children from the harmful effects of lead exposure, which can lead to significant health issues including developmental delays and learning difficulties. The value of 400 ppm reflects a balance between safety and practicality, ensuring that environments where children play are kept at minimal risk of lead contamination, while also allowing for the presence of materials that might naturally have trace amounts of lead.

In relation to other values, 100 ppm is typically too stringent for areas where children may play, and higher levels, such as 600 ppm and 800 ppm, pose greater health risks that are not acceptable according to current health guidelines. Therefore, 400 ppm serves as the safe threshold, protecting children's health in environments they frequent.