Dangers Of Lead Paint
Lead paint was commonly used in buildings before it was banned in the late 1970s. Although it is not used anymore, buildings constructed before this time may still have lead paint on their surfaces, which can pose a serious health hazard. The primary route of exposure to lead is through ingestion, followed by inhalation. Deteriorating lead paint is the main source of high lead levels in children’s blood. This toolbox talk will discuss the dangers of lead paint and what you can do to protect yourself.
Common Sources Of Lead Paint
Lead paint is commonly found on window frames, doors, railings, and porches. It can also be present in dust, soil, and water. When lead paint deteriorates or is disturbed, it can create dust that can be inhaled or ingested.
Lead Poisoning
(A large portion of this section was taken directly from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).)
Lead poisoning is caused by an overexposure to lead, most often through ingestion or inhalation. Lead can affect almost every organ and system in your body. Children six years old and younger are most susceptible to the effects of lead.
Children
Even low levels of lead in the blood of children can result in:
- Behavior and learning problems
- Lower IQ and Hyperactivity
- Slowed growth
- Hearing Problems
- Anemia
In rare cases, ingestion of lead can cause seizures, coma and even death.
Pregnant Women
Lead can accumulate in our bodies over time, where it is stored in bones along with calcium. During pregnancy, lead is released from the mother’s bones along with calcium and can pass from the mother exposing the fetus or the breastfeeding infant to lead. This can result in serious effects to the developing fetus and infant, including:
- Cause the baby to be born too early or too small;
- Hurt the baby’s brain, kidney’s, and nervous system;
- Increase the likelihood of learning or behavioral problems; and
- Put the mother at risk for miscarriage.
Other Adults
Lead is also harmful to other adults. Adults exposed to lead can suffer from:
- Cardiovascular effects, increased blood pressure and incidence of hypertension;
- Decreased kidney function; and
- Reproductive problems (in both men and women).
Best Practices To Avoid Exposure
If you are working in an older building that may have lead paint, follow safe work practices to protect yourself and others. Wear protective clothing, such as gloves, goggles, and a respirator, and use a wet sanding method to prevent the creation of dust. Avoid dry scraping, sanding, or blasting, as these methods can create lead dust.
To prevent exposure to lead paint, keep painted surfaces in good condition and clean up any dust or debris immediately. If you have young children, make sure they do not play near peeling or chipping paint, and wash their hands frequently.
Removing Lead Paint
If lead paint needs to be removed, hire a licensed professional who is trained in lead abatement. Never burn, sand, or scrape lead paint, as this can create toxic dust and fumes. Always dispose of lead paint and materials according to local regulations.
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