How Do You Safely Work With Lead-Based Paint?
Lead-based paint is a health hazard. Homes built between 1940 and 1960 run the greatest risk of containing lead-based paint, but homes built after 1960 may still contain lead-based paint. This paint is the primary source of lead poisoning in children ages six and under, although it can cause health problems in adults as well. Lead poisoning can cause learning disabilities, seizures, brain damage, nerve damage, behavioral problems, and even death. Problems in pregnancy and risks to the unborn fetus can occur in women. Because of the severity of health problems caused by lead, anyone who will be working with lead-based paint should use extreme caution and safety measures. If you are considering remodeling or painting an older home you should first have the paint tested for lead. There are do-it-yourself kits available but they are not always reliable. A laboratory test is a reliable method. If you have lead-based paint, all safety precautions should be taken to avoid any risks of exposur
