Hi there. The majority of electrical apparatus use cords that contain a small quantity of lead.
This metal is dangerous if ingested, and should not be a main concerned if handled, providing that you wash your hands afterward.
I quote what American Cancer Society says:
Many electrical wires and cables have small amounts of lead in their
outside insulation (surface covering), which can rub off on the hands
of people who touch the wires. People can be exposed to lead by
ingesting it, so if they eat or put their hands in their mouths without
washing up after handling these wires, they can take in small amounts
of lead. The bigger hazard is likely to be to toddlers and babies who
put wires in their mouths. Since they crawl around on the floor, it can
be challenging to keep them away from wires.
How can I avoid exposure (and protect
children in the house)?
- The most important point to avoid exposure is to wash your
hands after handling the electrical cords to avoid swallowing any lead
that rubs off onto them.
- Don't eat or feed children while handling
lead-containing cords or stringing holiday lights.
- Since small children are more likely to put cords, fingers,
and other objects in their mouths, keep lead-containing wires out of
their reach.
- Children are more affected by lead (see ACS document,
Lead), and should always have their hands washed before handling food
and eating.
