Lead has been used in many products.
One product in particular was paint. Lead was added to paint as a pigment, to create a specific color. The heavy metal additive also decreased the drying time, and making the paint more durable and more resistant to moisture. This made lead-based paint ideal for use in homes, on metal exposed to the elements, and even children’s toys.
It is very soft, highly malleable, ductile, and a relatively poor conductor of electricity. It is very resistant to corrosion but tarnishes upon exposure to air.
Why testing is required and health effects
Why testing is required and health effects
Lead is most harmful to infants and children whose developing immune system are more susceptible to harmful pollutants. Children exposed to dangerous levels of lead can suffer from learning disabilities, hearing loss, behavioral problems, and even death. Adults can also be victims of the dangerous effects of lead. Reproductive problems, pregnancy, high blood pressure to name a few. Due to this, the U.S. Government banned the use of lead paint in 1978. Today the major source of exposure to lead paint and lead dust in the U.S. is in homes built before 1978.
The primary path
way for lead exposure are through ingestion or inhalation of lead dust particles. Lead is a pollutant regulated by many laws administered by the EPA, including the (TSCA) – toxic substance control act and the EPA RRP Guidelines.
Testing Process
Lead testing is performed by collecting bulk samples of building materials which include paint chips and analyzed for the presence and levels of lead. Lead testing is also performed by use of lead wipes. This is usually done after remediation by wiping certain areas to ensure settled lead dust has been successfully removed.