Childhood lead poisoning has increased in Iowa as a result of homeowners renovating, remodeling or repairing their pre-1978 homes (according to the Iowa Department of Public Health – IDPH) between June, 2009 and September, 2009.
In this study, they found the 75% of all new lead poisoning cases were the result of home remodeling projects (12 of 16 cases reported by IDPH-certified inspectors).
Iowa has a current childhood lead poisoning rate of 7% for children under six, four-times the national average of 1.6%
Children are more susceptible to lead and other toxicants do to body mass, developing immune systems, and more direct hand to mouth use. Lead poisoning can adversely affect the nervous system, the development of the brain of children under 6, but it also effects the community and economy.
Lead poisoning is preventable, at it is important to understand what your home is made of when doing any renovation, repair or painting.
One way to quickly identify lead or other heavy metals is the use of X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF) Analyzers.
Attention Renovators!
Common renovation activities like sanding, cutting, and demolition can create hazardous lead dust and chips by disturbing lead-based paint, which can be harmful to adults and children.
The EPA has issued a new rule Renovation, Repair and Painting (RRP) that will require the use of lead-safe practices and other actions to prevent lead poisoning. The rule goes into effect in April 2010 and states that contractors performing renovation, repair and painting projects that disturb lead-based paint in homes, child care facilities, and schools built before 1978 must be certified and must follow specific work practices to prevent lead contamination.
Until that time, EPA recommends that anyone performing renovation, repair, and painting projects that disturb lead-based paint in pre-1978 homes, child care facilities and schools follow lead-safe work practices.
All contractors should follow these three simple procedures:
• Contain the work area.
• Minimize dust.
• Clean up thoroughly.
According to the HUD there are four components of Lead Safe Work Practices
1. Occupant Protection. Appropriate actions must be taken to protect occupants from lead-based paint hazards associated with Lead Hazard Reduction, paint stabilization, maintenance, or rehabilitation activities.
2. Worksite Preparation and Containment. The worksite must be prepared to prevent the release of leaded dust and debris.
3. Prohibited Methods. There are some methods that may not be used at any time to remove paint that is or may be lead-based paint.
4. Worksite Cleanup. Worksite cleanup removes dust and debris from the work area. Good cleanup is critical to passing clearance and leaving the unit safe for habitation. Worksite cleanup must be done using methods, products and devices that are successful in cleaning lead-contaminated dust, such as vacuum cleaners with HEPA filters and household or lead-specific detergents
Make sure you know what is in your environment before you do any renovation, knowledge is key to prevention.
