Lead Based Paints - What Are They And What You Need To Know

Lead based paints can be found in most homes older than 1978, and are a very real danger during renovations or repainting projects. Chipping and dusting lead based paint is one of the most common sources of lead poisoning in the US, with a disproportionate amount of the harm occurring in small children. Fortunately for home owners, the EPA has recently required painters and renovation contractors to demonstrate knowledge of lead mitigation techniques via a certification program. It is still important for those of us living in buildings built before 1978 to have basic knowledge lead based paint and how to identify potential hazards.

As previously stated, lead based paint is found in most homes and buildings constructed prior to 1978. In the late 70’s the hazards of lead based paint were becoming clearer and clearer, and the US government took action by restricting the use of leaded paint in most applications (though it is still used to this day in some industrial and military applications). The majority of structures built before 1978 have at least one coat of heavily leaded paint which has subsequently been covered with safer non-leaded paint.

Lead exposure occurs either via inhalation of contaminated paint dust or accidental ingestion of contaminated paint chips; contact with the skin itself is not dangerous. The good news is that lead based paint is not dangerous unless it is disturbed or damaged; in other words the lead based paint in older homes is mostly harmless. The danger is when the paint finishes are damaged or disturbed. This typically happens during renovations and repairs, during which large amounts of paint chips and dust can be created.

So what should a homeowner do to protect themselves and their family? First off it is important to know whether or not your home contains contaminated paint. If you are unsure, contact your local EPA office to arrange for an inspection. If you live in a home with leaded paint and have children, the EPA advises blood tests at age one and two. Children are especially susceptible to the harmful effects of lead based paint, and they are also prone to putting things in their mouth (such as paint chips). Be sure to have any failing paint surfaces repaired by a licensed painting contractor. Failing paint surfaces are evidenced by peeling, flaking, or bubbling. Also, if your home contains lead based paint avoid large do-it-yourself home repair or renovation projects. It is better to bite the bullet and hire a licensed professional who is trained in lead safety. You’ll want to hire a contractor who not only has a contractor’s license, but also one that is compliant with the EPA’s Lead Renovation, Repair, and Painting certification (this is a requirement as of April 2010, so there is no excuse for a contractor working on pre-1978 homes without this certification).

Finally, just use common sense. Know that lead poisoning is a serious threat, especially to children, and that it primarily occurs when contaminated painted surfaces are damaged or disturbed and the resulting dust or paint chips are ingested or inhaled. If you or anyone in your home has had the possibility of exposure get a blood test and know for sure.