The sale of used items in the United States is not regulated by any federal agency and consumers should be aware that they might be bringing lead poisoning hazards of past generations back into their homes. When Oregon State University researchers purchased a collection of used items from junk shops and second-hand and antique stores in several states around the country, they found that many of the items contained lead. Representative pieces included salvaged construction elements, antique toys, common drinking glasses and other dishware, jewelry and collectibles.