Of late, the subject of lead in paint has carried some prominence in the media (e.g. "Lead-laden paint still being sold" on health24.com) and we feel that it is vitally important to share some facts surrounding this issue.

As a subsidiary of the AkzoNobel group of paint companies, Dulux's product stewardship policies are an integral part of its strategies in Africa. The company aspires toward being an innovative, socially and environmentally responsible organisation with brands that provide value for money, good technical performance and minimal impact on the environment or health. Dulux will also participate with industry associations in the development of equitable and attainable standards throughout the world.

The elimination of the use of lead compounds in consumer products forms part of the company's product stewardship initiatives.

Lead compounds are commonly used the world over in pigments used to colour paint.
Some countries have agreed on "safe" limits for Paint manufacturers to use as a guideline.

Dulux also belongs to SAPMA (South African Paint Manufacturers Association) who have taken a stand on the issue and recognized 0.01% as the suitable limit in dried paints. Paints outside this limit are generally safe for use, but should be excluded from use on articles that could be chewed by children. Products outside this limit should therefore be clearly labelled as "Not suitable for use on products that may be chewed or sucked by children"

Since 1 October 2007, after significant research and international consultation on providing the same product performance while taking out lead based pigments, no product sold by Dulux has contained levels of lead above the SAPMA voluntary limits of 0.01%. Trace elements of lead can be found in virtually everything because of the amounts of lead in the atmosphere from petrol etc. Since Dulux does not add lead to any of its paint, it is completely safe for consumer use.

If you would like any additional information, please do not hesitate to contact us.