I'm trying to hang a picture and want to install some nails for that purpose. However, I'm really frustrated because every pack of nails I've found has a Prop 65 warning stating they may contain lead. This seems a bit excessive, right? I'm aware that these warnings often feel like overkill, but is it actually so difficult to find nails that are certified lead-free? If anyone knows where I can buy lead-free nails, that would be super helpful!
3 Answers
The Prop 65 warnings are pretty ubiquitous due to the way the law was structured. Even if a nail is clear, it still gets the warning label just because other products made in the same place might not be. So, don't stress too much about finding 'lead-free' nails; they're generally safe for common use.
Most nails carry the Prop 65 warning because it’s easier for companies to say "may contain lead" than to officially certify that their nails are completely lead-free. The whole law seems a bit flawed since it leads to over-warnings. Just know that it’s more of a legal precaution than an actual danger.
Honestly, unless you're planning on eating them, the presence of lead is pretty negligible. The environment has more lead exposure than you'd get from nails. And if they’re just going in your wall, you should be fine!
Exactly! And it's cheaper for companies to avoid certification costs. Probably why we’ll soon see local blacksmiths selling conflict-free, certified nails, right? ?