Epa Protect Your Family From Lead Based Paint
Lead based paint is a serious health hazard that can affect millions of families across the United States. This toxic substance can cause a wide range of health problems, particularly in young children and pregnant women. To address this issue, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has implemented a number of regulations designed to protect families from lead based paint exposure. Here's what you need to know.
What is Lead Based Paint?
Lead based paint is paint that contains high levels of lead. It was commonly used in homes and buildings prior to 1978, when the use of lead in paint was banned. However, many older buildings still contain lead based paint, which can pose a serious health risk to those who come into contact with it.
Health Risks Associated with Lead Based Paint
Exposure to lead based paint can cause a wide range of health problems, particularly in young children and pregnant women. These health problems can include:
- Learning disabilities
- Behavioral problems
- Lower IQ scores
- Anemia
- High blood pressure
- Damage to the brain and nervous system
- Reproductive problems
EPA Regulations on Lead Based Paint
In order to protect families from the dangers of lead based paint, the EPA has established a number of regulations. These regulations include:
- The Renovation, Repair and Painting Rule
- The Lead Abatement Rule
- The Lead Disclosure Rule
- The Lead Safe Housing Rule
The Renovation, Repair and Painting Rule
The Renovation, Repair and Painting Rule requires that contractors and others who work on buildings built before 1978 be trained and certified in lead safe work practices. This rule applies to anyone who disturbs painted surfaces in buildings, including renovators, painters, plumbers, electricians and HVAC technicians.
The Lead Abatement Rule
The Lead Abatement Rule requires that anyone who performs lead abatement work on buildings built before 1978 be trained and certified in lead abatement. This rule applies to anyone who removes lead based paint or performs other activities that disturb lead based paint.
The Lead Disclosure Rule
The Lead Disclosure Rule requires that sellers and landlords of buildings built before 1978 disclose the presence of lead based paint to potential buyers or tenants. This rule also requires that buyers or tenants be given a lead-based paint disclosure form and be allowed to conduct a lead inspection or risk assessment if they so choose.
The Lead Safe Housing Rule
The Lead Safe Housing Rule requires that public and private housing built before 1978 be tested for lead based paint hazards. If lead based paint hazards are found, they must be addressed using lead safe work practices. This rule applies to all federally-assisted housing and to private housing where children under the age of six are present.
What Can You Do to Protect Your Family?
There are several steps you can take to protect your family from lead based paint exposure. These include:
- If you live in a building built before 1978, have it tested for lead based paint hazards.
- If lead based paint hazards are found, have them addressed using lead safe work practices.
- If you are renovating or repairing a building built before 1978, make sure that the contractor you hire is trained and certified in lead safe work practices.
- If you are buying or renting a building built before 1978, ask for a lead-based paint disclosure form and have the building inspected for lead based paint hazards.
- If you have young children or are pregnant, take extra precautions to avoid exposure to lead based paint hazards.
Conclusion
Lead based paint is a serious health hazard that can affect millions of families across the United States. However, by following the EPA's regulations and taking steps to protect your family, you can minimize the risk of lead based paint exposure. If you are concerned about lead based paint exposure, contact your local health department or the EPA for more information.