Chemical and Allied Products (CAP) PLC has urged Nigerians to prioritise safety when choosing paint, stressing the need to prevent exposure to lead, a toxic metal that can damage health, particularly in children.

The company made the call through its “Look Beyond the Colour” campaign, which promotes informed consumer choices, responsible manufacturing and professional training to prevent lead exposure in homes, schools and workplaces.

The campaign coincided with the 2026 International Lead Poisoning Prevention Week, themed “From Detection to Prevention”, which highlights the need to identify sources of lead exposure and strengthen preventive measures.

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), there is no known safe level of lead exposure. The toxic metal can damage multiple body systems, with children particularly vulnerable to its effects on brain development, learning and behaviour.

The company noted that exposure could occur when lead-containing paint deteriorates or is disturbed during renovation and repairs.

Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of CAP PLC, Olalekan Aluk, said consumers should consider safety alongside colour, finish and cost when selecting paint.

He said the company’s commitment to paint products formulated without added lead came with a responsibility to promote safer practices across the industry.

Aluk called for collective action by manufacturers, regulators, retailers, painters, building professionals and consumers to ensure product safety, provide reliable information and encourage informed purchasing decisions.

The firm is investing in training to improve painters’ knowledge of product safety and responsible paint selection. Through its Painters Academy, the company has trained more than 8,000 painters across 17 states to make informed recommendations and promote safer painting practices.

Its partnership with the National Business and Technical Examinations Board (NABTEB) also supports efforts to professionalise the painting trade and provide pathways to recognised qualifications.

The firm said the initiatives were aimed at encouraging safer paint selection and application while reducing lead exposure and promoting healthier living and working environments.