REBUILDING TOGETHER O.C. 6 - 2006

Home Browse Search

Reducing Lead Hazards In The Home Removing lead improperly . can Increase the hazard to your family by spreading even more lead dust around the house. Always use a professional who is trained to remove lead haz.ards safely. In addition to day-to-day cleaning and good nutrition: . You can temporarily reduce lead hazards by taking actions such as repairing dam- aged painted surfaces and planting grass to cover soil with high lead levels. These actions (called "interim controls") are not permanent solutions and will need ongo- ing attention. . To permanently remove lead hazards, you should hire a certified lead "abate- ment" contractor. Abatement (or perma- nent hazard elimination) methods include removing, sealing, or enclosing lead-based paint with special materials. Just painting over the hazard with regular paint is not permanent removal. Always hire a person with special training for correcting lead problems-someone who knows how to do this work safely and has the proper equipment to clean up thoroughly. Certified contractors will employ qualified workers and follow strict safety rules as set by their state or by the federal government. Once the work is completed, dust cleanup activities must be repeated until testing indicates that lead dust levels are below the following: . 40 micrograms per square foot (J.1g1ft2) for floors, including carpeted floors; . 250 J.1g/ft2 for interior windows sills; and 400 J.1g/ft2 for window troughs. Call your state or local agency (see bottom of page 1 1) for help in locating certified professionals in your area and to see if financial assistance is available.