A lead paint test is a test performed on paint, usually located within a private home, to determine the lead content of the paint, if any. A vast majority of homes constructed prior to 1978 contain lead based paint. Lead is an extremely powerful toxin that damages neurons which interferes with the proper development and ability to function of almost all the body's organs. Children are particularly at risk for lead poisoning due to the frequency of hand-to-mouth activity they engage in on a daily basis which serves as a route for lead to enter their bodies. It should be noted that only lead paint that is chipped, peeling or otherwise disturbed presents a potential for harm. Paint that is intact or still sealed to the surface is not considered a threat. However, many property owners that have lead-based paint in their dwellings opt to remove it as a safety precaution.