Lead Abatement
Lead abatement is an activity designed to address lead-based paint hazards SO THAT IT IS NO LONGER A HAZARD. Abatement is sometimes ordered by a state or local government and can involve specialized techniques not typical of most residential contractors.
EPA requires individuals and firms who perform abatement projects in pre-1978 target housing and child-occupied facilities to be certified and follow specific work practices.
Learn more: Code of Federal Regulations for Residential Property Renovation
Click here to find an EPA or state lead-safe certified contractor in your area.
Abatement Methods
For a Step-by-step Summary of Abatement
Dust is the main problem.
The most common way to get lead in the body is from dust. Lead dust comes from deteriorating lead-based paint and lead-contaminated soil that gets tracked into your home. This dust may accumulate to unsafe levels. Then, normal hand to-mouth activities, like playing and eating (especially in young children), move that dust from surfaces like floors and windowsills into the body.
Common renovation activities like sanding, cutting, and demolition can create hazardous lead dust and chips.
The key to protecting yourself and your family during a renovation, repair or painting job is to use lead-safe work practices such as containing dust inside the work area, using dust-minimizing work methods, and conducting a careful cleanup, as described in this pamphlet.
For more information on how to keep our family safe from lead exposure during home renovations projects.
