What is Lead, and Why is it Dangerous?

Lead is a naturally occurring heavy metal that was a common additive in household paints for decades. It was prized for its ability to speed up drying, increase durability, and resist moisture. However, the scientific community has since recognized lead as a potent neurotoxin. There is no safe level of lead exposure. In children, even low levels of exposure can lead to irreversible health problems, including developmental delays, learning difficulties, hearing loss, and behavioral issues. In adults, lead poisoning can cause high blood pressure, joint and muscle pain, memory and concentration problems, and reproductive issues. The danger lies in the dust created when lead-based paint chips, peels, or is disturbed during renovations.

Common Sources of Lead in Idaho Homes

The U.S. government banned the use of lead-based paint in housing in 1978. However, a significant number of homes in Meridian, Boise, and surrounding communities were built before this ban took effect. If your home was built prior to 1978, it is highly likely to contain lead-based paint. Common locations include:

Besides paint, lead can also contaminate soil around the exterior of a home and find its way into household dust. It’s crucial for property owners, especially those planning renovations, to be aware of these potential sources. If you suspect your property may have lead-based paint, a professional inspection is the first step toward safety. For residents in the Boise area concerned about water damage that could disturb old paint, getting a professional assessment is doubly important.

Understanding the Professional Lead Abatement Process

Lead abatement is a specialized process designed to permanently eliminate lead-based paint hazards. It’s far more complex than a standard painting or renovation project and must be performed by certified professionals to ensure safety and compliance with EPA regulations. In Idaho, the EPA administers the lead abatement program, requiring certified firms and trained individuals for this work.

1. Inspection and Risk Assessment: A certified inspector or risk assessor will test painted surfaces to confirm the presence of lead and identify the severity of any hazards.
2. Containment: The work area is sealed off with heavy-duty plastic sheeting to prevent lead dust from spreading to other parts of the home. Warning signs are posted to restrict access.
3. Hazard Removal: Depending on the situation, certified technicians use various methods, such as encapsulation (covering the surface with a special coating), enclosure (covering with new drywall), or complete removal of the painted component or surface. Scraping and sanding are done using specific dust-minimizing techniques, like wet sanding and HEPA-filtered vacuums.
4. Thorough Cleanup & Disposal: After removal, the area is meticulously cleaned using HEPA vacuums and wet-wiping methods to capture all remaining lead dust and particles. All waste materials are disposed of according to strict federal and state guidelines.
5. Clearance Testing: A final inspection and dust testing are conducted to verify that the area is safe for re-occupancy.

Attempting DIY lead removal is extremely dangerous and can increase the risk of contamination for your entire family. The EPA’s Renovation, Repair, and Painting (RRP) Rule mandates that only certified renovators use lead-safe work practices. Hiring a certified company like Apex Restoration for lead abatement ensures the job is done safely and correctly.

Did You Know?

A Local Focus: Lead Safety in Meridian and the Treasure Valley

In communities like Meridian, Nampa, and Caldwell, which have a mix of historic and modern homes, lead safety is a pertinent local issue. Many beautiful, older homes in the Treasure Valley were built when lead paint was standard practice. Any renovation, repair, or even natural deterioration in these homes can release hazardous lead dust. Furthermore, issues like a pipe leak can cause paint to peel and bubble, creating a lead hazard where none existed before. If you experience water damage in your Meridian home, it’s critical to have a professional team that understands how to handle potential lead and other contaminants, like mold, safely.

Apex Restoration serves the entire Treasure Valley, from Boise to Ontario, OR, providing IICRC-certified technicians who respond rapidly to protect your property and health. Whether you’re planning a remodel or have discovered chipping paint, our team has the expertise to handle hazardous materials like lead and asbestos safely and effectively.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Glossary of Terms

• Abatement: A set of measures designed to permanently eliminate lead-based paint or lead-based paint hazards.
• Encapsulation: A process that makes lead-based paint inaccessible by covering or sealing it with a special liquid-applied coating.
• Enclosure: The installation of a rigid, durable barrier over a surface coated with lead-based paint.
• HEPA Filter: High-Efficiency Particulate Air filter, which is capable of trapping very small particles, including lead dust. Used in vacuums and respirators during lead abatement work.
• IICRC: Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification. A non-profit organization that sets standards and provides certification for the restoration and cleaning industry.
• Lead-Safe Work Practices: Specific methods required by the EPA to be used during renovation, repair, and painting projects to prevent lead contamination. Includes containing the work area, minimizing dust, and cleaning thoroughly.