LEAD RISK and MANAGEMENT

 

Before 1970, paints containing high levels of lead were used in many Australian buildings. Exposure to lead is a health hazard. Even small amounts of dust or chips of paint containing lead, generated during minor repairs, can be a health risk.

 

Anyone preparing surfaces for painting or doing maintenance that could disturb paint containing lead should avoid exposing themselves and environment to its hazards.

 

The amount of lead in paint has declined from 50% before 1965, to 1% in 1965. In 1992, it was reduced to 0.25%, and in 1997 it was further reduced to 0.1%.

 

According to AS 4361.2 1998 Guide to Lead Paint Management, "Even at levels of lead below 1% and as low as 0.25% dust generated from dry sanding or abrasive blasting can have sufficient lead content to produce exposure levels exceeding those which define a 'lead task' in NOHSC 1012"

 

Removal of lead paint must be conducted by trained professionals. Removal, transport and disposal must be carried out by licensed contractors and records of all procedures must be kept and provided to the client, EPA and WorkSafe.

 

Cryoprep endeavors to remain compliant with EPA Hazardous Materials Environmental Protection Policy (2010), AS 4361.2 (1998) and NOHSC 1012.

 

To learn more about the risks and results of lead exposure follow the links below

 

http://journals.plos.org/plosmedicine/article?id=info:doi/10.1371/journal.pmed.0050115

 

http://journals.plos.org/plosmedicine/article?id=info:doi/10.1371/journal.pmed.0050112

 

http://loe.org/shows/segments.html?programID=09-P13-00001&segmentID=4