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LBP or lead based paint was an incredible product. Lead, a heavy metal, was used as a pigment in paint to increase durability and speed up drying time. The lead also helped to retain a fresh appearance and resist moisture that causes mold, mildew, rust and corrosion. It was a great product…
The only problem…It Can Kill You!
Lead is a dangerous substance; it is especially dangerous to children under the age of six whose bodies are still developing. Lead based paint has been the major source of lead poisoning in children causing impaired mental functioning, nerve damage, delayed development, irreversible brain damage, and even death.
Lead poisoning also affects adults causing irritability, nerve damage, poor muscle control, high blood pressure, problems with the reproduction system and retards fetal development in pregnant women.
There is no cure!
Eating paint chips is one way children are exposed to lead, but in general most people are exposed from ingesting and inhaling lead dust from the paint chipping and peeling from deteriorating surfaces. Paint on the exterior weathers away to flakes and powder that accumulates in the soil next to the house. On the interior walking on chips and flaking paint also creates lead dust.
Of course any sanding or scrapping prior to re-painting or remodeling generates lead dust. All of the standard paint removal methods can cause lead fumes and dust which can be inhaled or ingested. These dust particles remain in the air for extended periods of time and are not easily removed by regular cleaning.
So, how do you know if your home has LBP? About two thirds of homes built before 1940 and one half of the homes built from 1940 to 1960 contain heavily leaded paint. Even some homes built after 1960 also contain LBP particularly on woodwork, doors and windows.
In 1978, the US Consumer Product Safety Commission lowered the legal maximum lead content in most kinds of paint. If your home was constructed before the 1980’s you might want to test it for LBP, especially if infants, children, or pregnant woman are present.
There are several different testing methods, from ‘do it yourself kits’ to having a trained professional test the paint for you. If you find that your home is painted with LBP you will need a trained certified professional to renovate or remove and replace the paint. These professional have been trained in the proper removal and disposal of this hazardous chemical.
As of April 22, 2010, federal law requires that: Painting or renovation and construction firms must be certified under EPA's Renovation, Repair and Painting Rule. Individuals must be trained in lead-safe work practices, and must be accredited by EPA.
Please check to make sure your painter or contractor is certified; not only for the safety and health of yourself and others, but there is a fine of up to $37,000.00 a day for those who are not certified. For more information please go to http://www.epa.gov
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LEAD BASED PAINT
