Your house is more likely to have lead-based paint if it was constructed before 1978. Although lead-based paint was outlawed by the federal government in 1978, several states had already outlawed it earlier.
Millions of homes still have lead-based paint, usually hidden behind layers of more recent paint.
Safety First, not History
The regrettable and well-known saying, “They don’t make ’em like they used to,” usually describes the older, robust structures and long-lasting homes that were constructed with better materials. But not every feature of older homes is beneficial and safe.
For instance, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) claims that lead-based paint was used in many homes constructed before 1978, and even the paint’s dust may be harmful to you and your children’s health. Adults with slightly elevated blood lead levels typically recover without any issues.
Millions of older homes in the US still have lead paint, which can be extremely dangerous to health if it deteriorates over time or gets disturbed during renovations.
Knowing lead paint testing is important if you suspect it may be present in any part of your house.
Why Lead Has Health Hazards
According to the EPA, children who are exposed to lead can face various issues, such as anemia, poor IQ, hyperactivity, behavioral and academic difficulties, and hearing issues. Even though it’s uncommon, it can result in comas, seizures, and even death.
Lead poses a risk to pregnant moms and their developing fetuses as well, raising the possibility of miscarriage and premature delivery. Additionally, it can harm an adult’s kidneys, heart, memory, and focus, in addition to causing joint discomfort.
A thorough program on lead-in toys, including toy jewelry, was launched by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). Lead poisoning in children can occur via biting or ingesting toys or jewelry made of lead.
The use of lead in many children’s products is prohibited by safeguards put in place by the CPSC to assist in reducing that risk.
Overcoming Lead Hazards
Lead from the paint can endanger the health of residents, especially young children if it is left to decay. The majority of lead-based paint risks can be controlled if families and building owners are informed about its existence and the appropriate steps to take.
As discussed above, living in houses built before 1978 is by no means safe. Once you’ve located areas where lead paint is present, you can engage inspection experts to identify and remove it as safely as possible. The Environmental Protection Agency has approved painters who can safely remove lead paint from homes.
Using sealants over lead paint is permissible. If you do not intend on remodeling, a sealant is a good approach to protect you and your family from lead paint.
If the paint is already removed, it can save you and future property owners the trouble of having to remove it. You and your loved ones should not come into contact with lead as long as the sealant is intact and does not chip or peel.
Also Read: Can You Paint Over Lead & Is it Safe to Paint Over It?
Conclusion
Does your house have a 1970s feel about it? Your home will be revamped for an additional fifty years if any of these problems are addressed. Please get in touch with Manhattan Lead Inspections to make your updates if any of these items get under your skin.
To make sure your residence or workplace is completely safe and compliant, Manhattan Lead Inspections offers certified lead paint testing and risk assessment inspections in NYC. Our staff can accurately assess the danger and determine whether lead is present in paint using the potent XRF technology.
