Scientists argue for stricter lead soil contamination standards. What Palisades and Eaton fire survivors should know

LOS ANGELES — It’s a number thousands of Palisades and Eaton fire survivors have come to depend on: 80 milligrams of lead in each kilogram of soil.

Below this concentration, California has historically deemed yards safe enough for families to rebuild and move home after a fire. Any more, state scientists say, comes with a notable risk of kids developing neurological problems from the lead they accidentally inhale, absorb through their skin and eat while playing outside.

In a new paper out Friday, Harvard environmental health researchers argue it’s not strict enough. The scientists contend that the state’s health standard is not based on sound science and should sit around 55 milligrams per kilogram of soil (a measure also referred to as “parts per million”) instead.

“We’re getting asked