Lead Abatement
Lead is a metals based contaminant that can damage the cognitive development of children, as well as cause a host of other health risks. When lead is absorbed into the body, it can cause damage to the brain and other vital organs, like the kidneys, nerves and blood. Lead may also cause behavioral problems, learning disabilities, seizures and in extreme cases, death.
It is possible to further contaminate your property and increase the risk of exposure by incorrectly approaching the abatement process. It is best to rely on the advice of a certified and trained contractor. Although this is not one of our specialties, we often engage other certified professionals as part of on overall environmental remediation project.
There are four primary ways to reduce the risk of lead exposure. These are:
- Enclosure: Covering lead paint with a flexible wall covering, paneling or gypsum board. Enclosure works best on large, flat surfaces that are not subject to friction.
- Paint Removal may be done on or off the work-site. Paint removal often creates large amounts of lead dust, fumes and mists. This is best left to the professionals.
- Replacement involves removing the object coated with lead paint entirely and replacing it with new material. This is one of the best methods for doors, windows, and moldings.
- Encapsulation covers and seals lead paint with a special coating. It is less expensive than more thorough methods of abatement, but not suitable for surfaces subject to friction.
Contact PENOCO, we can discuss each of these options and decide on the best approach to reducing hazards from this contaminant.
There are things that you can do to reduce some of the exposure. HUD has an educational reference available online at http://www.hud.gov/offices/lead/healthyhomes/lead.cfm