Monroe Health Department Warns of Lead Hazards During Renovations

Submitted by the Monroe Health Department

Summer is almost here and now’s the time to plan for that kitchen remodel or maybe the replacement of old drafty windows. However, be aware that if your home was built before 1978 there is a good chance that lead-based paint is present on doors, trim, windows, sills, exterior wood siding, etc. Common renovation activities such as sanding and scraping, cutting, and demolition can disperse hazardous paint chips and dust in your home.

The Centers for Disease and Control reported that childhood lead poisoning is associated with renovation, repair, and painting activities in pre 1978 housing. The damage to children can be lifelong, causing speech and learning disabilities, and reducing IQ. Protect your family from exposures to lead paint hazards by following basic safeguards. Remove furniture, carpets, and drapes from work areas. Seal off all doorways and vents with 6 mil plastic sheeting. Do not dry scrape or sand by using a power grinder, clean up after work, use a 3 bucket wash system with hot soapy water. If you hire a contractor, make certain that he/she is RRP Certified to follow lead-safe work practices.

For additional information on safe renovation and remodeling, and child lead poisoning prevention, visit the Edith Wheeler Memorial Library, June 5-11, 2017 or go to the Monroe Health Department website at http://www.monroect.org/health.

Prepared by Nancy Carol Brault, Director of Health, Town of Monroe, nbrault@monroect.org.

Image via Pexels