Vintage/ Antique Filing Cabinet (in my #SheShed):
Lead: 191 +/_ 74.
Tested with an XRF instrument.
This is not typical – many vintage metal filing cabinets (& desks and other office equipment) are – in fact – very high lead.
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The amount of lead that is considered toxic in an item intended for children is 90 ppm lead and higher. Antiques and vintage items are not regulated and in most cases with re-sale it is not required to mark them as containing lead (and being potentially hazardous) as it is required with many newly manufactured items. Vintage office equipment is/was not regulated for toxicity.
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Have you heard about https://finewal.com I was planning to try their furniture since it was referred to me by a friend? They got loads of custom to finished made furniture and I’m curious to see an actual cabinet from them.
What year range are we talking about here as “vintage” and how recent of office filing cabinets should be ok?
Hello Anna! Thank you for commenting. Here is my post defining the terms “vintage” and “antique”: https://tamararubin.com/2020/03/what-is-vintage-what-is-antique-some-definitions-to-help-you-determine-if-your-cherished-items-are-likely-to-be-toxic-or-not/
Please let me know if you have any additional questions.
Tamara
Thanks, Tamara! Are new metal filing cabinets typically ok? (such as available at Staples, Target, etc.)
Hi Anna –
Yes, new metal filing cabinets are generally fine. I would avoid any with brass hardware. Here’s a good example: https://amzn.to/2G9WTEQ (affiliate link).
Tamara