Lead can be present in many areas, especially with the historic stock of buildings that we have here in Galveston. Levels of lead can be found in historic paint, in dust on window ledges and in the dirt in yards. High levels of lead can damage the kidneys, nervous system and reproductive system. Children are especially at risk from lead poisoning. Exposure can stunt mental and physical growth.
If your house was built before 1978, you most likely have lead based paint present in some level. Lead (often referred to as "White Lead") was used to provide a white base to paint. Color pigments would be added after that. Titanium is now the base for providing the white pigment in most paints. Lead based white paints had a noticeable gray tint to them, where titanium provides a bright white.
There are proper ways to work around paint that may contain lead. Paint that you suspect may contain lead should NEVER be sanded with electric power tools. If you are concerned (especially if you have small children in your house), please contact a certified lead based paint inspector and have your building tested. They should test all surfaces inside and outside the house, as well as the soil in the yard. Layers of paint containing lead can be encapsulated to reduce the exposure to dust and flakes.
If painted areas must be scraped, scrape them by hand and keep the area wet, to minimize dust. Wear proper protective gear. All paint chips should be collected on sheets of plastic and properly disposed of. Waste water from the area should also be collected and treated as hazardous waste.
The following site can answer some frequently asked questions about lead poisoning:
Link to the Lead Poisoning Prevention website:
Texas Department of State Health Services - Environmental Lead Program:
Useful information from the National Safety Council, including an order form for a home lead test kit:
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