According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, “Childhood lead poisoning remains a major environmental health problem in the U.S." The most likely source of dangerous lead can be found in lead paint that was used on homes built before 1980. Exposure to lead can harm not only young children, but also babies before they are born, and even adults. At CSC, we are experts at detecting the sources of lead contamination, and are well aware of the many stringent requirements that must be adhered to during removal. If you suspect that lead contaminants are present in your building or at your site, we can help you clear the air safely and effectively.

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The Facts About Lead Paint

The health hazards of lead
People absorb lead into their bodies by breathing or swallowing lead dust, but more often the case with children, by eating soil or paint chips containing lead. In fact, babies and children tend to put their fingers or objects into their mouths which can have lead dust on them. In children, lead poisoning can result in damage to the brain or nervous system, behavior problems, slowed growth, hearing problems and headaches. Adults may experience pregnancy and reproductive problems, high blood pressure, memory loss, nerve disorders, digestive problems and muscle or joint pain.

Where lead is lurking

Lead-based paint is the most likely source of lead contamination. Though the federal government banned the use of lead paint from housing in 1978, there is still much of it around, and as it gets older and continues to deteriorate, lead paint dust and chips will continue to come in contact with people. Even the soil outside of buildings can contain toxic levels of lead due to peeling, chipping and deteriorating exterior paint. Parts of buildings that experience friction, rubbing or constant use—like windows, doors, stairs, railings, porches or fences—are more likely to generate harmful amounts of lead dust.

Safely removing lead paint
Lead paint itself may be dangerous, but removing it improperly can often contribute to the hazards it presents. This is because scraping, sanding and heating can create lead dust and release it into the air where people might come in contact. At CSC, our lead-based paint consultants are specifically trained to discover the ways lead-based paint contaminants are released into the air and how to safely remove any materials containing them. For this reason, after we have determined the source of your contamination, we will design a remediation plan and then monitor it until all your hazardous materials are removed. We will provide “before and after" measurement data as well as detailed documentation to support all your abatement procedures.