Lead is a toxic metal that was used for many years in products found in and around our homes. Because lead is an element (Pb), it does not break down or decay over time. Lead can be emitted into the air from industrial sources and leaded aviation gasoline, and lead can enter drinking water from plumbing materials. Lead can be found in dust and soils. However, Lead-Based Paint (LPB) remains the most concentrated and widely dispersed source of lead exposure in our country.
Lead may cause a range of health effects, from behavioral problems and learning disabilities, to seizures and death. Anyone can be poisoned by lead although children six years old and under are most at risk. The Secretary of Health and Human Services claimed lead exposure as the most devastating environmental disease of our children.
The presence of lead-based paint in and around dwellings is a substantial health hazard which necessitates that special safety activities be used when working in and around lead-based paint. The California Lead Law, the EPA: Renovate Repair and Paint Law (RRP), the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) regulations and OSHA regulations all control work practices in lead affected areas. (See Resource Links)
Lead Based Paint (LPB) is commonly found in homes built before 1978. However, properties built between 1960 and 1978 have a 25% probability that LBP is present while properties built from 1940-1960 have a 69% probability and pre-1940 properties have an 87% probability that LBP is present. Pursuant to California Lead Law, all paint shall be presumed to be LBP when present on all dwellings constructed prior to January 1, 1978 unless the paint is found to be not lead-based by a California Certified Lead Inspector. Property owner(s) wishing to be exempt from all LBP compliance activities can submit a copy of a Certified Inspectors’ written report showing the dwelling to be free of LBP.
A lead inspection is a surface by surface investigation to determine the presence of LBP. It answers two basic questions: 1) is there LBP and 2) where is it? It may identify LBP hazards via a visual inspection and may also include information on the age and history of the dwelling unit as well as other pertinent information in a written report of the results.