Lead Based Paint in Homes
Lead Based Paint Hazard
Are you concerned with lead based paint in your home? Below is some information to better inform you of where lead based paint is found and steps to take reduce the risk of exposure to lead.
Lead based paint is mostly found in homes that were built before 1978, as the Federal Government put a ban on lead-based paint in homes in that year. A few states had banned lead based paint even earlier than that.
Where can lead based paint be found?
- Homes located in the city, country, or suburbs
- Apartments or single-family homes, along with private and public housing complexes
- Interior as well as the exterior of the house
- Soil surrounding the house due to lead paint or leaded gas seeping from cars
If you suspect your house has lead based paint, take precautions before you or your contractor do any remodeling or renovation that may disturb the paint.
First, have the area tested for lead. You can call up a Lead Abatement Specialist in your area to come out to your home and conduct these tests. Or you can call the EPA for a listing of specialists in your area.
Second, if you chose to remove the paint, do not use a belt-sander, heat gun with high temperatures, or dry sand paper to remove the lead based paint as this can generate large amounts of lead dust and fumes. This dust and smell can linger in your home for days to weeks after the work is done.
Third, if you discover that you do have lead based paint, and you want to remove it, you should temporarily move your family out of the house or apartment (especially children and pregnant women). Keep away until all the work is completed and the house has been properly cleaned of all dust and fumes. If it is not possible to move your family out for that time period, then at least block off that area, sealing it tightly so no dust or fumes reaches the rest of the house. Close off and cover any vents in the area being remodeled/repaired.
Please note that lead based paint does NOT necessarily have to be removed. It can stay in place and be encased with the proper coat/type of paint. If the paint is not chipping or flaking, it does not necessarily pose a hazard. The hazard comes from the dust and fumes of the paint that are inhaled or from flaking paint chips that a small child may ingest.
For more information, call 1-800-424-LEAD and ask for the brochure “Reducing Lead Hazards When Remodeling Your Home.” This brochure explains what to do before, during, and after renovations.
If you have already completed renovations or remodeling that could have released lead-based paint or dust, get your young children tested in case of exposure to lead.
Popularity: 48% [?]
About the Author: Allison Levy is an expert in the Environmental Field having over 15 years of experience working with government agencies and private industries. She graduated from the University of Maryland University College with a Master’s of Science in Environmental Management. Allison has worked in the field by conducting environmental, health and safety surveys/inspections on underground storage tanks, air quality, hazardous material, and the like.
