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Below is a reprint of the EPA publication "Keep it Clean: An Insider's Guide to Lead–Safe Painting and Home Improvement" for more information about lead–based paint hazards in the home see "Protect Your Family from Lead in Your Home".
Consumer paint has not contained lead in decades, however anyone working in an older home or building (built before 1978) may encounter old, lead–based paint. While lead–based paint does not present a hazard when intact (i.e. not chipping, peeling, chalking or otherwise disturbed, if you are contemplating a typical renovation or remodeling project know that it can disturb the painted surface and create lead dust. Special attention should be given when you prepare any old painted surface for repainting. Never use open burning methods, if you scrape, sand or remove old paint by any means you may release lead dust or debris. Lead is toxic and exposure to lead can cause serious illness, such as brain damage, especially in children. Pregnant women should also avoid exposure. The National Paint and Coating Association (NPCA) is providing the folllowing information on (old) lead–based paint hazards and safeguards to use when undertaking renovation, remodeling or repainting projects. |
In the BeginningIf you're like most homeowners, you've probably thought about doing a painting projecto orsome other type of home improvement. It can create a better living space, give you a sense of satisfaction and increased the value of your home. Whether you do it yourself or hire a professional, there are safety issues to consider before starting the job. Removing paint that contains lead is the most hazarous part of a painting or home improvement project. Lead paint was used in homes built before 1978 and extensively in homes built before 1960. It was usually applied to windows, doors, stairs, railings, columns, porches, siding and trim. Since these are the places that often need work, many home improvement projects disturb old layers of lead paint and create lead paint dust, chips or fumes. If lead is inhaled or ingested, it may cause lead poisoning. Lead poisoning can result in serious harm to the brain, kidneys, nervous system and red blood cells. Lead is especially dangerous to children and prenant women. |
The Fuss About DustChoose work methods that create the least amount of dust.
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Play it SafeAlways follow these safety guidelines as you work
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The Right StuffUsing the proper equipment will help you complete hyour job safely.
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Leave the Scene CleanAlways clean up carefully at the end of each workday.
At Final Clean–Up
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Take it Off, SlowlyNever use these dangerous paint–removal methods.
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Get the Lead OutMake sure to test for lead dust when your job is finished.
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Dust SamplingIt is recommended that three samples (the floor, a window sill and a window well) be taken in each room where work has been done. For the Floor:
For Window Wells and Window Sills
Be sure to properly lavel the sample containers. Remember to change gloves between samples. For additional guidance or to get the name of an accredited laboratory to analyze paint or dust samples, contact the EPA's National Lead Information Hotline at 1–800–424–LEAD (5323) or go to www.epa.gov/lead |