Lead Poisoning Prevention

Remodelers & Renovators

Those who work in older homes may be at risk for lead exposure, especially in the form of lead dust. When working in homes that were built prior to 1978, begin with two basic assumptions. Always assume that the home contains lead-based paint unless a lead inspection shows otherwise, and that exposing anyone to dust, especially children, is harmful. Keep in mind the following points to protect yourself and others:

Remember the pre-renovation rule: contractors must have building owners sign a disclosure notice prior to beginning work in pre-1978 homes;
If an area inside the home greater than 2 square feet or an area outside the home greater than 20 square feet is disturbed, precautions are required;
Minimize the creation of dust. Avoid extensive dry scraping or sanding and uncontrolled abrasive blasting. Mist surfaces with water before sanding or scraping;
Make sure to wear appropriate respiratory protection when working in pre-1978 homes.
Don't use power sanders or grinders without an approved HEPA filter attachment;
Protect occupants, particularly children. Keep them away from the work area and clean up the work site before they return.
Protect occupants' belongings by removing them from the work area when possible or covering them securely with 6 mm plastic;
Don't take dust home with you! Clean up and change clothes before leaving work to avoid exposing your home to lead dust;
Hire a lead inspector to perform a clearance test for your home after the work is completed to ensure that no exposure risk remains. The Lead Poisoning Prevention Program (828-251-6104) will perform this service free of charge in homes where children under six reside;
Enroll yourself and your employees in a lead-safe work practices training course.
Call the Lead Poisoning Prevention Program (828-251-6104) for written materials to learn more about lead-safe work practices, or to use/borrow our HEPA filtration systems;
Click here to learn about lead-safe work practices.

The North Carolina Lead-Based Paint Hazard Management Program (LHMP) is administered by Health Hazards Control . They provide lead information and certify firms and individuals conducting lead-based paint management activities. Health Hazards Control accredits training courses, issues permits for lead-based paint abatement projects, inspects lead-based paint abatement projects, and responds to citizens' complaints.

For more information on the management of lead-based paint hazards in North Carolina , contact Health Hazards Control at (919) 707-5950 .

In April 2010, EPA’s new lead rules will go into affect. Special lead-related training will be required for anyone conducting work for pay in target housing or child-occupied facilities.

Links to EPA's new Lead-Based Paint Renovation, Repair and Painting rule, April 2008
http://www.epa.gov/fedrgstr/EPA-TOX/2008/April/Day-22/t8141.pdf

Brochure: Contractors - Lead Safety During Renovation
http://www.epa.gov/lead/pubs/contractor_brochure.pdf

Folleto: Contratistas – Seguridad Contra el Plomo Durante la Renovación
http://www.epa.gov/lead/pubs/contractor_brochuresp.pdf

Remember the pre-renovation rule: contractors must have building owners sign a disclosure notice prior to beginning work in pre-1978 homes;

Pre-renovation Disclosure Form
http://www.epa.gov/lead/pubs/pre-renovationform.pdf