Paint & Dust

Paint & Dust

Lead in Paint

Homes built before 1978 are more likely to have lead-based paint. 

Lead was often added to paint used in homes built before 1978.  In 1978, the federal government banned the use of lead-based paint in homes.  The older the home, the more likely it is to have lead-based paint. 

Any of the following paints and coverings may contain lead if they were made before 1978:

• Paint
• Varnish
• Enamel
• Lacquer
• Glaze
• Stain
• Primer
• Coating

Lead-based paint is a problem when it is peeling, cracking, or chipping.  Lead-based paint is also a problem when it is painted on something that moves or rubs against something else creating lead-based paint dust. This risk is greatest with windows and doors that have been painted with lead-based paint.

If you live in a home built before 1978, you may want to get your home tested for lead. You can hire a certified lead professional to do this test.

Lead in Dust

Lead dust is created when:

• Lead-based paint is scraped, dry sanded, heated or burned.
• Windows and doors that have been painted with lead-based paint rub together.
• Lead-contaminated soil is brought indoors.
• Lead from a job or hobby is brought home on clothes or hands.
• Lead is used at home for hobbies.

What educational resources are available?

Guide to safe cleaning of lead paint chips and dust