Lead Safe Work Practices are required by anyone working in or on pre-1978 buildings and doing any work that may disturb Lead-Based Paint. The precautions are to protect workers, occupants and children, who are the most likely to be harmed.
Using Lead-Safe Work Practices prevents lead hazards when doing any work that may cause dust, debris or paint chips. There are three primary steps:
- Minimize the dust and paint chips that are created by using methods and equipment to prevent the spread of lead-contaminated dust.
- Contain the dust, debris and paint chips that are unable to be prevented during any work that disturbs lead paint. This can include using plastic on floors, removing or covering furniture in the work area, using entry doorway barriers and preventing cross contamination through open windows, doors and HVAC vents.
- Clean-up completely to unsure that no potential hazardous lead dust remains.
According to the EPA Lead Paint Renovation, Repair and Painting Rules all lead safe work practices must be documented and records kept for 3 years. All work must be performed by a Lead Certified Firm and the job overseen by a Lead Certified Renovator who has completed a one day, Lead Certification Class.