Does Your Pittsburgh Property Contain Lead?

6/28/2017 (Permalink)

Older homes, older child care facilities, schools and other buildings are more likely to contain lead-based paint. Homes may be private, government-assisted or public housing. Schools are preschools and kindergarten classrooms. They may be urban, suburban or rural.

Percentage of homes likely to contain lead:

• Built between 1960-1978 = 24%

• Built between 1940-1960 = 69%

• Built before 1940 = 87%

What can you do to protect your family from lead in pre-1978 homes?

• If you rent, notify your landlord of peeling or chipping paint.
• Clean up paint chips immediately.
• Regularly clean floors, window sills, and other surfaces. Use a mop, sponge, or paper towel with warm water and a general all-purpose cleaner or a cleaner made specifically for lead.
• Thoroughly rinse sponges and mop heads after cleaning dirty or dusty areas.
• Wash children’s hands, bottles, pacifiers and toys often.
• Keep children from chewing window sills or other painted surfaces.
• Clean or remove shoes before entering your home to avoid tracking in lead from soil.

SERVPRO of Metro Pittsburgh follows the EPA's strict guidelines for lead paint

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) requires firms performing renovation, repair, and painting projects that disturb lead-based paint in pre-1978 homes, child care facilities and schools be certified by the EPA. These firms also must use certified renovators who are trained by EPA-approved training providers to follow lead-safe work practices.

According to EPA requirements (40 CFR Part 745) contractors must use lead-safe work practices and follow these three simple procedures:

• Contain the work area.
• Minimize dust.
• Clean up thoroughly.

SERVPRO of Metro Pittsburgh technicians always take the necessary precautions according to current laws. Our technicians have been trained and certified to follow lead-safe work practices while performing renovation and repair projects in your area.