Identifying Lead Hazards
Properties Built Before 1978
Since over 75% of housing in Calhoun County was built before 1978, the potential for lead poisoning exists in most housing throughout the county. It’s vital that more people know how to identify lead hazards and address them properly.
Prior to 1978, indoor and outdoor house paint contained lead becuase it made the paint more durable and provided for brighter colors.
Scraping peeling paint, striping painted furniture or trim, or not cleaning up small amounts of paint dust can introduce lead exposure hazards into the home.
Lead water pipes also pose a potential threat for lead exposure. However, testing of Calhoun County water supplies indicate that lead paint is our greatest hazard.
- Prior to 1978, indoor and outdoor house paint contained lead. Lead paint was more durable, and the lead provided for brighter colors.
- Scraping peeling paint, striping painted furniture or trim, or not cleaning up a small amount of paint dust can introduce lead exposure hazards into the home.
- Lead water pipes also pose a potential threat for lead exposure; however, testing of many Calhoun County water supplies indicates that lead paint is our greatest hazard.
The potential for lead poisoning exists in more than 75% of housing throughout Calhoun County, so it’s vital that more people understand how to identify lead hazards and address them properly.
Testing For Lead in Your Units
If you suspect a lead hazard, testing is the next step toward making your units as lead safe as possible.
HOME TEST KITS
- Available at most local hardware stores
- Low cost (usually around $10)
- Good, but not as accurate as professional testing
PROFESSIONAL TESTING
- Most accurate way to test for lead hazards
- More expensive ($600 to $1,000)
- Usually covered by the Lead Safe Program – APPLY NOW
EPA Compliance
When performing updates on your unit(s), it’s important to know the difference between lead abatement and lead RRP activities as defined by the EPA. You must comply with EPA law regarding lead abatement as well as the Renovation, Repair, and Painting (RRP) Rule. The RRP Rule requires that “firms or individuals performing renovation, repair, or painting project that disturb lead-based paint in homes, child care facilities and pre-schools built before 1978 be certified by EPA (or an EPA-authorized state), use certified renovators who are trained by EPA-approved training providers and follow lead-safe work practices.”
If you (or your property manager) wish to do some of the work yourselves, you must become Lead-Safe Certified. Find out more about EPA requirements and training providers as they pertain to you and your property.
Have questions? Let’s work together to make your rental units as lead safe as possible.
Have questions? Let’s work together to make your rental units as lead safe as possible.
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