Lead-based paint is generally categorized as any paint containing lead in a concentration greater than or equal to one milligram per square centimeter. Lead was originally added to paint to produce a desired paint pigment as well as for some beneficial properties that it added to the paint, such as added flexibility, increased durability and corrosion prevention. Due to these useful features, lead-based paint was often utilized within residential, commercial and public buildings constructed prior to 1978. In 1977, the United States Consumer Products Safety Commission (CPSC) banned the use of lead paint in residential and public building as well as other consumer products.

Lead-based paint has been found to be hazardous to the human organism and this is especially the case when it comes to children. Children are more vulnerable to lead-based paint hazards due to the fact that children tend to chew things and are therefore more likely to ingest lead-based paint. Additionally children's bodies are still developing and are more susceptible to lead poisoning effects such as:

  • Slowed mental development
  • Behavioral and learning problems
  • Slowed growth
  • Hearing problems
  • Anemia

Adults can also be exposed by inhaling lead dust if spending significant time in spaces where lead-based paint is deteriorating or during renovations involving the disturbing of lead-based paint. Adverse health effects for adults may include:

  • Cardiovascular problems
  • Reproductive problems
  • Decreased kidney function

Due to the above-described toxic characteristics of lead-based paint, regulatory agencies have developed strict guidelines and regulation concerning the process of dealing with lead-based paint and the individuals qualified to conduct work involving lead-based paint. Much like with any environmental hazard, it is always best to consult an environmental safety professional with regard to the proper course of action when dealing when lead-based paint and to ensure that any contractor disturbing lead-based paint is appropriately licensed to do so. 

Feel free to contact us to learn more about lead-based paint and other common environmental health and safety hazards.