Get The Lead Out!

2/3/2016 (Permalink)

Does Your Property Contain Lead?

What you need to know about LEAD PAINT!

Does your home contain lead paint?

Older homes, older child care facilities, schools and other buildings are more likely to contain lead-based paint. Homes may be private, government-assisted or public housing. Schools are preschools and kindergarten classrooms. They may be urban, suburban or rural.

Percentage of homes likely to contain lead: 

Built between 1960-1978 = 24%

Built between 1940-1960 = 69%

Built before 1940 = 87%

Here are some quick facts about LEAD PAINT.

Lead-based paint was used in more than 38 million homes until it was banned for residential use in 1978.

Lead can affect children’s brains and developing nervous systems, causing reduced IQ, learning disabilities and behavioral problems.

Even children who seem healthy can have high levels of lead in their bodies.

Lead is also harmful to adults and the elderly.

Lead in dust is the most common way people are exposed to lead. People can also get lead in their bodies from lead in soil or paint chips. Lead dust is often invisible.

Projects that disturb lead-based paint can create dust and endanger you and your family.

In most cases, lead-based paint that is in good condition is not a hazard. 

Know the law.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) requires firms performing renovation, repair, and painting projects that disturb lead-based paint in pre-1978 homes, child care facilities and schools be certifi ed by the EPA. These firms also must use certified renovators who are trained by EPA-approved training providers to follow lead-safe work practices. According to EPA requirements (40 CFR Part 745) contractors must use lead-safe work practices and follow these three simple procedures:

1. Contain the work area.
2. Minimize dust.
3. Clean up thoroughly

We here at SERVPRO know how to keep you and your loved ones safe during the Lead Paint Removal Process, call us now at 843-236-6278.