Lead-Based Paint Services
Background on Lead
Our country faces many health and environmental problems as a result of lead pollution with lead-based paint being a major contributor. Lead-based paint (LBP) is present in roughly 83% of all housing stock in the private sector, and in roughly 86% of family housing units according to the nation’s housing authorities. Found mainly in buildings constructed prior to 1978, lead is a soft metal that was a versatile and favorable mechanic adding durability in construction. Lead can also be found in soils, drinking water, and in the dust on interior surfaces.
If in good condition, lead-based paint in building materials usually is not a hazard. Upon these materials becoming disturbed, paint chipping or crumbling, is when LBP becomes hazardous, especially on surfaces that can have friction or a lot of use such as doors, windows, stairs, railings, and porches. When this happens, lead can create dust that contains toxins which can be breathed in and thus cause damage to the human body. When the area is vacuumed or swept, dust can reenter the air, causing harm to everyone inside.
Lead exposure can cause severe damage to the human body. Mainly the central and peripheral nervous systems are affected in adults. For those under the age of 6, lead exposure can be especially poisonous.
Regulations
To determine if lead-based paint is present, an inspection must be conducted by a Certified Lead-Based Paint Inspector (CLBPI). This is a requirement in the State of Colorado prior to the disturbance of any building material potentially containing lead-based paint if more than 6 square feet of interior surfaces or 20 square feet of exterior surfaces will be disturbed, or if any window is being replaced. The Environmental Protection Agency and the Housing and Urban Development Act have instituted guidelines and regulations for these activities. If lead is present on building components above Colorado’s action level, then certified professionals must use “lead-safe” work practices and Renovation, Repair, and Paint (RRP) certified contractors. The CDPHE Regulation No. 19 can be referred to for more information.
Our Services
The only way to determine if paint in building materials, water, or even soil may have hazardous levels of lead-based paint is to have these materials tested. AEC’s professionals provide these tests utilizing approved methods in accordance with the regulations such as inspections, sampling, scanning paint surfaces, and clearances. If lead is found, we work alongside many certified contractors to help with the safe removal. Call us today for a free project assessment!
