Painting & Rehab

If your home was built before 1978, it may contain lead paint. Homes built before 1950 have the most lead paint. Lead paint was most often used on windows, trim, porches and outside walls. Paint repair and remodeling projects that involve old paint can create severe lead dust hazards. Protect your family – whether you do the work yourself or hire a painter or contractor.
1. Seal Off the Area
Keep children and pregnant women out of the room.
Remove as much furniture as you can from the room. Cover remaining furniture with heavy plastic sheets.
Cover the work area floor with heavy plastic.
Be careful not to track dust out of the area.
Do not eat, drink or smoke while working.
2. Avoid Dust, Chips or Fumes
Mist paint before you scrape or sand. Water helps keep lead dust from the air.
Don’t sand blast or power wash. This makes clouds of lead dust.
Power sanders or grinders should have HEPA filters and hoods to trap dust.
Do not use open flames or heat guns above 1100° F.
Do not use paint strippers with methylene chloride.
3. Keep the Area Clean
Place trash in heavy plastic bags.
Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter to clean up dust and debris.
Scrub floors and walls with soap and water. Rinse well with clean water.
Never burn trash with lead in it.
Conduct a dust test to be sure the area is safe for children or pregnant women.
4. Keep Dust Off Yourself
Be careful not to track lead dust around your home.
Change work clothes and shoes right after you leave the work area.
Wash work clothes separately from your family’s laundry.
Shower and wash your hair as soon as possible.