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Lead Paint XRF Testing - Same day results

Residential and Commercial Pb - Lead Paint Testing

Pacific Northwest Inspections Group Lead Risk Assessors only use XRF for sampling. We can also sample dust and soil.

XRF (X-ray Fluorescence) testing is one of the most reliable and efficient methods for detecting lead in paint. It is commonly used in lead paint inspections due to its non-invasive, rapid results, and ability to analyze multiple layers of paint. Here's an overview of how XRF testing works for lead paint detection, its benefits, and considerations:

How XRF Testing Works

  • Principle: XRF technology works by emitting X-rays onto a painted surface. When the X-rays interact with atoms in the paint, they cause the atoms to fluoresce, or emit secondary X-rays. The energy and wavelength of these secondary X-rays are analyzed to determine the chemical composition of the paint, including the presence of lead.
  • Device: The test is typically conducted with a handheld XRF device, which the inspector holds against the painted surface. The device then measures the fluorescence and provides immediate results on the lead concentration in the paint.
  • Multiple Layers: One of the advantages of XRF testing is that it can measure lead levels in multiple layers of paint (if present), which can be important when determining the severity of lead contamination in older buildings with multiple coats of paint.Commercial Lead XRF Testing

Advantages of XRF Testing

  • Non-destructive: XRF testing does not require taking samples or damaging the painted surfaces, making it ideal for use in occupied spaces or historical buildings.
  • Immediate Results: The results are available almost instantly, allowing the inspector to assess and document lead content in real time.
  • Quantitative Data: XRF provides a precise measurement of lead levels, typically reported in micrograms of lead per square centimeter (µg/cm²). This helps determine whether the paint exceeds acceptable lead levels.
  • Comprehensive Analysis: XRF can test a wide range of surfaces, including walls, doors, windows, trim, and other painted components.
  • Multiple Tests in a Short Time: The handheld nature of the device allows for testing many surfaces in a short period.

XRF Results

  • Lead Concentration Thresholds: According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), lead paint is considered hazardous if the lead content is >1.0 mg/cm². If lead concentrations exceed this threshold, corrective action is typically required (removal, encapsulation, or remediation).
  • Surface Condition: The condition of the painted surface (peeling, chipping, or deteriorating) is critical. High lead levels in deteriorating paint present a higher health risk, especially in homes with children.

XRF Testing - Dump the swabs!

  • Calibration and Expertise: The device must be properly calibrated, and the inspector must be trained to interpret results correctly. Inaccurate readings can occur if the device is not used properly.
  • Surface Types: XRF testing works best on flat, non-reflective surfaces. Some surfaces (e.g., metal or highly textured areas) may give less accurate results.
  • No Sample Collection: While XRF can measure lead in paint, it does not provide samples for laboratory analysis. In some cases, further confirmation through paint chip sampling or laboratory analysis may be necessary, especially if results are borderline or ambiguous.

 Regulatory Requirements

  • EPA Guidelines: In the U.S., XRF testing must be conducted by a certified lead-based paint inspector or risk assessor. The inspector should follow the EPA's guidelines for lead paint testing, which ensure that the results are legally defensible.
  • Reporting: When lead is detected, building owners must comply with regulations, including notifying tenants (if applicable) and following local health and safety codes for remediation.

 

  • If lead paint is detected at hazardous levels, the building owner should follow regulatory guidelines for remediation. This could include lead paint removal, encapsulation, or repairs to prevent lead exposure. Testing should also be conducted in areas where dust or soil contamination may have occurred.

XRF testing is a powerful tool for identifying and quantifying lead-based paint in buildings. It provides fast, non-destructive, and accurate results that can guide the owner in making informed decisions regarding lead paint hazards. Always ensure the testing is done by a certified professional who understands how to interpret the results in compliance with local and federal regulations.

 

Lead soil sampling is an essential step in assessing potential lead contamination in the soil surrounding a property, especially in areas where lead-based paint has deteriorated, or where past activities may have contributed to soil contamination. Lead contamination in soil is a health hazard, particularly for children, as they may come into contact with contaminated soil through play or ingestion of soil particles. Here’s a guide to understanding the process and importance of lead soil sampling:

Why Conduct Lead Soil Sampling?

  • Lead Paint Hazards: In homes or buildings with lead-based paint (especially those built before 1978), deteriorating paint can lead to lead dust or chips that fall onto the ground. This can contaminate the soil around the property.
  • Health Risks: Soil contaminated with lead poses significant health risks, especially to children, as they are more likely to ingest or inhale lead-contaminated dust or soil. Even low levels of lead exposure can result in developmental delays, learning difficulties, and other health problems.
  • Environmental Cleanup: Lead soil sampling is critical for assessing the need for remediation in cases where soil contamination is suspected. It can also help track contamination from nearby industrial sites or lead-related activities (such as lead-based gasoline use before it was banned in the 1970s).

When Should Lead Soil Sampling Be Conducted?

  • Renovations or Demolition: If you're planning renovations or demolition in an area with suspected lead-based paint, it's important to assess the surrounding soil.
  • Children in the Area: If young children frequently play outdoors or live in the area, soil testing is crucial, especially in older urban neighborhoods.
  • Urban Areas and Historical Sites: Properties near industrial areas or historical sites (e.g., old mining towns or former manufacturing plants) might have higher soil contamination levels.

Lead Soil Sampling

Lead soil sampling typically involves the collection of soil samples from various locations around the property to assess lead levels. Here’s how it’s done:Lead Paint Testing

  • Choosing Sampling Locations:
    • The goal is to collect samples from areas where children may play (e.g., yards, playgrounds, gardens).
    • Additional samples may be taken from areas near deteriorating painted surfaces (like windowsills, doors, or exterior walls) to check if lead paint has contaminated the soil.
    • Sampling should also be done near any potential sources of contamination (e.g., along fence lines, near driveways, or areas with a history of industrial use).
  • Sample Collection:
    • Soil Depth: Lead can accumulate in surface layers (the top 1-6 inches), so samples are typically taken from shallow depths. In areas where contamination is suspected to be deeper (e.g., near old factory sites), deeper soil samples might be needed.
    • Tools and Techniques: A clean shovel, trowel, or soil auger is used to collect soil samples. Each sample should be taken from a well-mixed location to avoid contamination and ensure accurate results.
    • Multiple Samples: It’s essential to collect multiple samples from different locations to get a representative sample of the area. For example, in a backyard, you might collect 4-6 samples from various spots, mixing them together for a composite sample.
  • Packaging and Transport: Samples are placed in clean, labeled containers (typically plastic bags or jars) and sent to a certified laboratory for analysis.

Regulatory Guidelines and Risk Levels - EPA and WAC Code 365-230-200

Various agencies set guidelines for safe lead levels in soil:

  • EPA Guidelines (U.S.):

    • Residential Areas: The EPA considers a lead concentration of 400 µg/g or more in play areas (e.g., yards, gardens, or playgrounds) as hazardous. For other areas in residential properties, a level of 1,200 µg/g is often used as a benchmark.
    • Cleanup Threshold: If lead levels exceed these thresholds, remediation efforts (such as soil removal or capping) may be necessary.
  • CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention): The CDC recommends action if a child’s blood lead level exceeds 5 micrograms per deciliter (µg/dL), which could be influenced by exposure to contaminated soil.

What Happens if Lead is Detected in the Soil?

  • Evaluation of Risks: If lead concentrations are high, especially in areas where children play, steps should be taken to reduce exposure.
  • Mitigation and Remediation:
    • Soil Removal: In areas with extremely high lead concentrations, contaminated soil may need to be excavated and replaced with clean soil.
    • Capping: In some cases, a less invasive approach like covering the contaminated soil with a layer of clean soil, mulch, or grass can be effective.
    • Vegetation: Planting grass or ground cover in areas with lead contamination can reduce direct contact with the soil and minimize dust exposure.
    • Maintenance: Ensuring that the area remains free of debris and minimizing activities that disturb the soil (e.g., heavy foot traffic) can help reduce the potential for exposure.

 

Long-Term Monitoring

If lead contamination is found, it may be beneficial to conduct periodic follow-up testing, especially if remediation efforts are implemented. Continued monitoring can ensure that the area remains safe over time and that lead levels do not rise due to external factors (e.g., new sources of contamination).

Lead soil sampling is an important process for identifying and assessing the risks of lead contamination, especially in older properties where lead-based paint may have deteriorated into the soil. If lead is found in high concentrations, remediation is necessary to protect the health and safety of residents, especially children. By following proper sampling procedures and adhering to regulatory guidelines, building owners can help mitigate the risks associated with lead exposure in soil.

Lead dust wipe testing is a critical method used to assess lead contamination in the dust of indoor environments, particularly in homes, schools, and daycare centers built before 1978. Lead dust is one of the most common and dangerous forms of lead exposure, especially in older buildings where lead-based paint may have deteriorated. Lead dust can be harmful when inhaled or ingested, particularly to children, pregnant women, and pets.

Purpose of Lead Dust Wipe Testing

  1. Assessing Lead Hazards in Dust

    • Identification of Contamination: Lead dust wipe tests help identify whether lead dust is present on surfaces such as windowsills, floors, and other areas where dust accumulates. If a building has lead-based paint and it is deteriorating (chipping, peeling, or creating dust), lead particles can become airborne and settle on surfaces.
    • Confirming Lead Hazards: These tests are often used to confirm the presence of lead hazards in environments where lead-based paint exists or has been disturbed, such as during renovations or demolition. The dust wipe test can determine if the dust poses a risk to the health of the building’s occupants.
  2. Health and Safety Assessment

    • Child and Worker Protection: Lead dust can be a serious health risk, especially to young children, as they are more likely to ingest dust particles by putting their hands or toys into their mouths after coming into contact with contaminated surfaces. Lead exposure is linked to developmental delays, learning disabilities, and other health issues.
    • Environmental Cleanup: Dust wipe testing is often used to assess whether a building has been properly cleaned of lead dust after renovations, repairs, or remediation efforts. If lead levels exceed acceptable thresholds, further cleaning or remediation may be required.
  3. Regulatory Compliance and Documentation

    • EPA Guidelines: The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) set guidelines for lead dust levels in residential properties, particularly in places where children live or spend significant time. Dust wipe testing is a way to ensure compliance with these regulations.
    • Post-Renovation Clearance: In homes or buildings undergoing renovations or repairs involving lead-based paint, lead dust wipe tests are used as part of the clearance process to ensure that the space is safe for re-entry. This is especially important for properties undergoing renovation under the EPA Renovation, Repair, and Painting (RRP) Rule.
  4. Preventive Action and Risk Management

    • Monitoring Lead Hazards: Lead dust wipe testing is useful for regular monitoring of potential lead hazards, particularly in properties with known lead risks. By periodically testing for lead dust, property owners or managers can take preventive action before levels reach dangerous thresholds.
    • Risk Mitigation: Identifying areas of contamination early allows for timely intervention, such as additional cleaning, lead dust removal, or more extensive remediation if necessary.

How Lead Dust Wipe Testing Works

  1. Collection of Samples

    • Wipes: A certified lead inspector or risk assessor uses specialized wipes or cloths to collect dust samples from surfaces suspected of being contaminated with lead dust. Common surfaces for testing include:
      • Windowsills: Especially critical since deteriorating lead paint around windows is a common source of dust.
      • Floors: Areas where lead dust may settle, particularly in rooms that were recently renovated or have high foot traffic.

Read our Blog on Lead Dust Wipes for more information!

HUD Section 8 Lead Paint Testing

SECTION 8 HUD LEAD PAINT TESTING

All units under the Section 8 Program must follow the HUD Lead Safe Housing Rule and the State/ Federal EPA Renovator regulations.

 

  • Units constructed prior to 1978 which will be occupied by children under six years of age, a pregnant woman, or a daycare facility, HUD requires that there be no defective paint on the interior and exterior of the unit, boundary fences, and outbuildings.
  • If defective paint is found the requirements of the HUD Lead Safe Housing rule apply. Specialized training requirements may apply when addressing paint stabilization and repair.
    • If the defective paint is over deminimis levels specialized training and certification are required :
      • 20 square feet of all exterior surfaces combined.
      • 2 square feet of any interior room.
      • 10 percent of a small component-interior and or exterior,
      • The repairs or paint stabilization must be done by someone trained under the RRP rule with renovator certification and State Firm Certificate.
      • Once the repairs are completed the unit must pass clearance.
      • Included is an overview of those requirements.
      • Please note the Lead Safe Housing Rule is more restrictive than the two regulations. The voucher program must comply with the most stringent HUD rules.

 

TESTING LEAD IN SOIL / DIRT

Soil lead testing in State of Washington is slightly different than paint inspections, and they can be categorized into two groups. These are:

  • In-Situ Tests: Also known as on-site tests, these examinations are conducted using an XRF analyzer that is pointed at the soil. Besides providing instant results, this technique also complies with the standards set by the US EPA Method 6200 to locate contamination boundaries.
  • Ex-Situ Tests: These tests are carried out off-site and may take a few days because the samples are sent to a lab. It’s worth noting that multiple samples are required to get an accurate representation of the area. These tests may be more accurate than in-situ tests, but they also provide slower results.

 

How Does Lead-Contaminated Soil Affect Your Household?

Humans usually suffer symptoms of lead exposure after ingestion. Children that are 2 to 5 years old are at the highest risk because of the increased probability of ingesting soil or dirt. Moreover, pets and children can also track fine lead particles back into your house. These airborne particles can settle close to the entry points, where as dust sampling can find if any harazarous level of lead are present in your home or office. Lead is also not safe for your pets. Dogs and cats can also have health issues from lead exposure. Lead dust poses the highest risk of EBL elevated Blood Levels.

The landlord could decide to have a lead paint inspection done by a certified lead paint inspector or risk assessor. If the result of the certified lead test indicates no presence of lead, the Housing Authority may exempt from such treatment defective paint surfaces that are found in a report prepared by a State Certified Lead Based Paint Inspector or Risk Assessor not to be lead-based paint.

Call 425.608.9553 for XRF Lead testing Seven days a Week!

 

If there are areas that are positive, the Housing Authority will have to review the report and determine the next course of action.

 

Need Lead Paint testing? We perform lead inspections, clearance testing, lead hazard screens, and lead paint risk assessments. Call 425.608.9553

RRP Lead Dust Clearance Sampling

Call us for a Lead Clearance Survey - 425.608.9553

The purpose of the Renovation, Repair, and Painting Program (RRP) is to minimize exposure to lead-based paint dust during renovation, repair, or painting activities. Common renovation activities like sanding, cutting, and interior demolition can create hazardous lead dust and chips by disturbing lead-based paint, which can be harmful to adults and children. Firms performing renovation, repair, and painting projects that disturb lead-based paint in pre-1978 homes, childcare facilities, and schools, must be certified by the Department of Commerce and use certified renovators who are trained by an approved training provider to follow lead-safe work practice. EPA has the authority to seek civil fines of $37,500 per offense and an additional criminal fine of $37,500 plus jail time for knowing and willful violations of the Renovation, Repair, and Painting Rule requirements.

WHEN TO PERFORM LEAD DUST WIPE CLEARANCE

Renovation activities that disturb lead-based paint can create lead dust so proper cleanup after these jobs is critical. The purpose of lead dust clearance is to determine if the area is safe for re-occupancy. Lead dust clearance is performed:

• After renovation, repair, painting, and cleaning activities are finished in a property built before 1978 and where children are assumed to spend time.

• After hazard reduction or maintenance activities in most federally-assisted properties built before 1978 that are covered by HUD’s LSHR. Lead dust sampling technicians should NEVER perform post-abatement clearance. (Abatement—as opposed to renovation, repair, and painting— is a term used for the complete removal of lead.) When performing clearance, the lead dust sampling technician is required to bring a copy of his or her certificate of initial training to the worksite.

Where To Collect Samples

Lead Dust Clearance Tests If there is more than one room, hallway, or stairwell within the work area, take:

• One windowsill sample and one floor sample within each room, hallway, or stairwell (no more than four rooms, hallways, or stairwells need to be sampled).

• If the windows were not closed and covered with plastic during the renovation, also take one window trough sample in each room, hallway, or stairwell (no more than four need to be sampled).

• One-floor sample adjacent to the work area, but not in an area that has been cleaned. For federally-assisted housing, take these samples if the work area is contained, otherwise, clear the whole unit.

If the work area is a single room, hallway, stairwell, or a smaller area, take

• One windowsill sample and one floor sample.

• If the windows were not closed and covered with plastic during the renovation, also take one window trough sample.

• One-floor sample adjacent to the work area, but not in an area that has been cleaned.

 

New Lead Wipe Action Levels

Ensuring that Laboratories Can Achieve the New Action Level Requirements: Laboratories that analyze samples from target housing for lead in dust samples must be recognized by EPA under its National Lead Laboratory Accreditation Program (NLLAP).

 NLLAP’s procedure for ensuring that laboratory’s reports are reliable12 includes that, when reporting a value for the lead loading of a sample, the lab must demonstrate that the minimum dust-lead loading levels it reports to a client (its Minimum Reporting Limit (MRL) for thisanalysis) are no more than half the level of interest to the client (in this case, the Action Level), and that the minimum dust-lead loading it can detect reliably (the Minimum Detection Limit (MDL) for this analysis is no more than half of the MRL.

For example: For an Action Level of 10 µg/sf (and using a 1 sf sample area), the laboratory’s MRL can be no more than 5 μg/sf and the laboratory’s MDL must, therefore, be no more than 2.5 μg/sf.

(Note: Terminology varies, so MRL and MDL may also be referred to as Quantitation Limit and Detection Limit, respectively, or by other terms.) As already required by NLLAP, laboratories must report results below the MRL, as less than the MRL, for example, “< 5 µg/sf,” and not as “None Detected,” “ND,” “None Found,” or similar wording.

There are two routes to achieving the new Action Level requirements:

1. A laboratory may already have the required MDL and MRL, or agree to achieve the required MDL and MRL by the effective date of this policy guidance, so a floor sampling area of 1 sf can continue to be used.

2. Inspectors, Risk Assessors and Clearance Technicians may use a sampling area of 2 sf using one dust wipe.

This can be accomplished by, for example:

a. Using a 2 sf template;

b. Using two 1 sf square-C shaped templates taped open-face to open-face; or

c. Measuring and marking a 2 sf area with masking tape on the outside border of the area being sampled.

Any of these approaches will satisfy the EPA requirements.

By analyzing a single dust wipe that was used to sample an area of 2 sf, the laboratory is really looking to be able to report on 20 μg of lead sampled from that 2 sf area.

This is equivalent to reporting on 10 μg of lead per 1 sf of area and conforms to the new action level for floors.

The clearance survey of lead hazard control grantees found that 91% of the grantees examined used labs with MRLs of 10 μg of lead or less in floor clearance samples. It is evident that very many labs can analyze samples for the lower floor Action Level in this guidance when 2sf of the floor area is sampled.

 

WAC 365-230-200

Work practice standards.

(1) Only certified individuals and the certified firms employing such individuals shall perform or offer to perform lead-based paint activities.

(2) Documented methodologies that are appropriate for this section are found in the following: The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Guidelines for the Evaluation and Control of Lead-Based Paint Hazards in Housing (Revised, July, 2012); the EPA Guidance on Residential Lead-Based Paint, Lead-Contaminated Dust, and Lead-Contaminated Soil; the EPA Residential Sampling for Lead: Protocols for Dust and Soil Sampling (EPA report number 7474-R-95-001); regulations, guidance, methods or protocols issued by this department; any other equivalent methods and guidelines.

(3) Clearance levels appropriate for the purposes of this section may be found in subsection (8)(g)(i) and (v) of this section or other equivalent guidelines.

(4) Work practice requirements. Applicable certification, occupant protection, and clearance requirements and work practice standards are found in regulations described in this section, and in regulations issued by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) at 24 C.F.R. part 35, subpart R.

(a) The work practice standards in those regulations do not apply when treating paint-lead hazards of less than:

(i) Two square feet of deteriorated lead-based paint per room or equivalent;

(ii) Twenty square feet of deteriorated paint on the exterior building; or

(iii) Ten percent of the total surface area of deteriorated paint on an interior or exterior type of component with a small surface area.

(b) When performing any lead-based paint activity described as a lead-based paint inspection, lead hazard screen, risk assessment or abatement, a certified individual must perform that activity in compliance with these rules, documented methodologies, work practice requirements, and the work practice standards described in this section.

(5) Inspection. Only a person certified by the department as an inspector or risk assessor may conduct an inspection.

(a) Locations shall be selected according to documented methodologies and tested for the presence of lead-based paint as follows:

(i) In target housing and child-occupied facilities, each interior and exterior component with a distinct painting history shall be tested for lead-based paint, except those components determined to have been replaced after 1978 or determined to not contain lead-based paint; and

(ii) In a multifamily dwelling or child-occupied facility, each component with a distinct painting history in every common area shall be tested, except those components determined to have been replaced after 1978 or determined to not contain lead-based paint.

(b) Paint shall be tested for the presence of lead using documented methodologies which incorporate sampling quality control procedures and all paint chip, dust, and soil samples shall be analyzed for detectable levels of lead by a laboratory accredited under the National Lead Laboratory Accreditation Program (NLLAP).

(c) Inspection reports shall be prepared and include at least:

(i) Inspection date;

(ii) Building address;

(iii) Date of construction;

(iv) Apartment identification (numbers, letters, names if applicable);

(v) Name, address and telephone number of owner or owners of each unit;

(vi) Name, signature, and certification number of each inspector or risk assessor conducting testing;

(vii) Name, address and telephone number of the certified firm employing each inspector or risk assessor;

(viii) Each testing method and device or sampling procedure employed for paint analysis, including sample quality control data, and if used, the serial number of any X-ray fluorescence (XRF) device; and

(ix) Specific locations of each painted component tested and the results of the inspection expressed in appropriate units for the sampling method used.

(6) Lead hazard screen. A lead hazard screen shall be conducted only by a person certified by the department as a risk assessor and shall be conducted as follows:

(a) Background information shall be collected about the physical characteristics of the target housing or child-occupied facility and occupant use patterns that may cause lead-based paint exposure to one or more children age six years and under shall be collected.

(b) A visual inspection shall be conducted to determine the presence of any deteriorated paint and locate at least two dust sampling locations.

(c) If deteriorated paint is present, each deteriorated paint surface determined using documented methodologies, and to have a distinct painting history shall be tested for the presence of lead.

(d) In residential dwellings, two composite dust samples shall be collected, one from the floors and the other from the windows, in rooms, hallways or stairwells where one or more children age six or under are likely to come in contact with dust.

(e) In multifamily dwellings and child-occupied facilities, floor and window composite dust sampling shall be conducted as specified for conducting lead hazard screens in residential dwellings in the Work Practice Standard section of these rules. In addition, composite dust samples shall be collected in common areas where one or more children age six or under are likely to come in contact with dust.

(f) All dust samples shall be collected using documented methodologies that incorporate sample quality control procedures and analyzed by a laboratory accredited under the National Lead Laboratory Accreditation Program (NLLAP) to determine detectable lead.

(g) A lead hazard screen report shall be prepared by the risk assessor and include:

(i) Information in a risk assessment report as specified in subsection (7) including (i)(i) through (xiv) and excluding (i)(xv) through (xviii). Additionally, any background information collected pursuant to the lead hazard screen shall be included.

(ii) Any recommendations for follow-up risk assessment and other further actions.

(7) Risk assessment. Only an individual certified by the department as a risk assessor may conduct a risk assessment of target housing or child-occupied facility. A risk assessment shall be conducted as follows:

(a) A visual inspection shall be conducted to locate the existence of deteriorated paint, assess the extent and cause of deterioration, and other potential lead-based hazards.

(b) Background information shall be collected regarding the physical characteristics and occupant use patterns that may cause lead-based paint exposure to one or more children age six years and under.

(c) The following surfaces which are determined, using documented methodologies, to have a distinct painting history, shall be tested for the presence of lead:

(i) Each friction surface or impact surface with visibly deteriorated paint.

(ii) All other surfaces with visibly deteriorated paint.

(d) In residential dwellings, dust samples (either composite or single-surface samples) from the interior window sill(s) and floor shall be collected and analyzed for lead concentration in all living areas where one or more children, age six and under, are most likely to come in contact with dust.

(e) For multifamily dwellings and child-occupied facilities, the samples required in "residential dwellings" as described in (b) of this subsection shall be taken. In addition, interior window sill and floor dust samples (either composite or single-surface samples) shall be collected and analyzed for lead concentration in the following locations:

(i) Common areas adjacent to sampled target house or child-occupied facility; and

(ii) Other common areas in the building where the risk assessor determines that one or more children, age six and under, are likely to come in contact with dust.

(f) For child-occupied facilities, interior window sill and floor dust samples (either composite or single-surface samples) shall be collected and analyzed in each room, hallway or stairwell utilized by one or more children, age six and under, and in other common areas in the child-occupied facility where the risk assessor determines one or more children, age six and under, are likely to come in contact with dust.

(g) Soil samples shall be collected and analyzed for lead concentrations from the following locations:

(i) Exterior play areas where bare soil is present; and

(ii) The rest of the yard (i.e., nonplay areas) where bare soil is present.

(h) Any paint, dust or soil sampling or testing shall be conducted using documented methodologies that incorporate sample quality control procedures and analyzed by a laboratory accredited under the National Lead Laboratory Accreditation Program (NLLAP) to determine detectable lead.

(i) The certified risk assessor shall prepare a risk assessment report which shall include as a minimum the following information:

(i) Assessment date.

(ii) Address of each building.

(iii) Date of construction of buildings.

(iv) Apartment identification (numbers, letters, names if applicable).

(v) Name, address and telephone number of each owner of each building.

(vi) Name, signature, and certification number of each risk assessor conducting the assessment.

(vii) Name, address and telephone number of the certified firm employing each risk assessor.

(viii) Name, address and telephone number of each laboratory conducting analysis of collected samples.

(ix) Results of the visual inspection.

(x) Testing method and sampling procedure employed for paint analysis.

(xi) Specific locations of each painted component tested for the presence of lead.

(xii) All data collected from on-site testing, including quality control data, and if used, the serial number of any X-ray fluorescence (XRF) device.

(xiii) All results of laboratory analysis on collected paint, soil, and dust samples.

(xiv) Any other sampling results.

(xv) Any background information collected pursuant to subsection background information portion of the risk assessment work practice standard of this section.

(xvi) To the extent used as part of the lead-based paint hazard determination, the results of any previous inspections or analyses for the presence of lead-based paint, or other assessments of lead-based paint related hazards.

(xvii) A description of the location, type, and severity of identified lead-based paint hazards and any other potential lead hazards.

(xviii) A description of interim controls and/or abatement options for each identified lead-based paint hazard and a recommended prioritization for addressing each hazard. If the use of an encapsulant or enclosure is recommended, the report shall recommend a maintenance and monitoring schedule for the encapsulant or enclosure.

(8) Abatement. An abatement project shall be conducted only by certified individuals and the certified firms employing such individuals. Abatement shall be conducted as follows:

(a) A certified supervisor or project designer is required for each abatement project and shall be on-site during all worksite preparation and during post-abatement cleanup of work areas. At all other times, the certified supervisor or project designer shall be on-site or available by telephone, pager, or answering service, and be able to be present at the worksite in no more than two hours.

(b) The certified supervisor or project designer, as well as the certified firm employing that individual shall ensure that all abatement activities are conducted according to the requirements of these rules and all federal, state and local requirements.

(c) A certified project designer may replace and assume the responsibilities of a certified supervisor required for an abatement project. If a certified project designer provides supervision on an abatement project, the project designer shall be responsible for preparing the occupant protection plan and the abatement report.

(d) A written occupant protection plan shall be developed prior to all abatement projects, be prepared by a certified supervisor or project designer, be unique to each target housing or child-occupied facility, describe the measures and management procedures that will be taken during the abatement to protect the building occupants from exposure to any lead-based paint hazards. The written occupant protection plan shall be present at the project site and must be made available on demand for inspection.

(e) A scope of work for the abatement project shall be present at the project site and must be made available on demand for inspection.

(f) These work practices shall be restricted during abatement and paint removal:

(i) Open-flame burning or torching of lead-based paint is prohibited;

(ii) Uncontained hydro blasting or high-pressure washing of lead-based paint is prohibited;

(iii) Machine sanding or grinding or abrasive blasting or sandblasting of lead-based paint is prohibited unless used with high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) exhaust control which removes particles of 0.3 microns or larger from the air at 99.97 percent or greater efficiency;

(iv) Dry scraping of lead-based paint is permitted only in conjunction with heat guns or around electrical outlets or when treating defective paint spots totaling no more than two square feet in any room, hallway or stairwell or totaling no more than 20 square feet on exterior surfaces; and

(v) Operating a heat gun on lead-based paint is permitted only at temperatures below 1100°F.

(g) When soil abatement is conducted, if the soil is removed:

(i) The soil shall be replaced by soil with a lead concentration as close to local background as practicable, but less than 250 parts per million (<250 ppm).

(ii) The soil that is removed shall not be used as top soil at another residential property or child-occupied facility.

(iii) If the soil is not removed, the soil shall be permanently covered so as to be separated from human contact by the placement of a barrier consisting of solid, relatively impermeable materials, such as pavement, asphalt or concrete.

(h) Soil interim controls:

(i) Grass, mulch, shrubbery and other landscaping materials are not considered permanent covering, but may be used as interim controls that eliminate contact with bare soils.

(ii) Interim control measures are acceptable in areas where bare soils contain less than the current HUD abatement standard (see 24 C.F.R. part 35.1330 (f)(2)) for lead in soils, except in:

(A) A child's play area, or any bare soil area where a child under six years of age regularly plays. Interim control measures are not acceptable in these areas where soil lead levels exceed 250 ppm.

(B) A garden area, or any other area where bare soils produce edibles intended for human consumption. Interim controls are not acceptable in these areas where soil lead levels exceed 250 ppm.

(iii) On-going monitoring and evaluation of interim soil control measures must adhere to HUD Guidelines, as found in chapter 6.

(i) The following clearance procedures shall be performed only by a certified and licensed inspector or risk assessor and according to the following procedures:

(i) A visual inspection shall be performed to determine if deteriorated painted surfaces and/or visible amounts of dust, debris or residue are still present. If deteriorated painted surfaces or visible amounts of dust, debris or residue are present, these conditions must be eliminated prior to the continuation of the clearance procedures.

(ii) If exterior work on a project cannot be completed due to inclement weather or other factors, the project supervisor or designer may apply in writing to the department for authorization of a preliminary clearance. The application must include the following:

(A) The project address.

(B) The name and certification number of the abatement project supervisor or project designer.

(C) A description of the conditions that justify issuance of a waiver.

(D) A description of the abatement work that remains to be done on the project.

(E) A schedule for completion of the abatement work that remains to be done.

(F) A plan for monitoring and controlling potential lead-based paint contamination until work can be completed.

(G) At the conclusion of all work on a project for which preliminary clearance has been authorized, the project supervisor or designer shall present the department with documentation that clearance testing has been performed on exterior and interior areas according to these rules and that all clearance test results are below clearance levels.

(iii) Following the visual inspection and any post-abatement cleanup required in subsection (8)(i) of this section, clearance sampling for lead in dust shall be conducted. Clearance sampling may be conducted by employing single-surface sampling or composite sampling techniques.

(iv) Dust samples for clearance purposes shall be taken using documented methodologies that incorporate sample quality control procedures and shall be taken a minimum of one hour after completion of final cleanup activities.

(v) Post-abatement clearance activities shall be conducted based upon the extent or manner of work activities conducted in or on the target housing or child-occupied facility as follows:

(j) After conducting an abatement with containment between containment and noncontainment areas, one dust sample shall be taken from one interior window sill and from one window trough (if present) and one dust sample shall be taken from the floors of no less than four rooms, hallways or stairwells within the containment area. In addition, one dust sample shall be taken from the floor outside the containment area. If there are fewer than four rooms, hallways or stairwells within the containment area, then all rooms, hallways or stairwells shall be sampled.

(i) After conducting abatement with no containment, two dust samples shall be taken from no fewer than four rooms, hallways or stairwells in the residential dwelling or child-occupied facility. One dust sample shall be taken from one interior window sill and from one window trough (if present) and one dust sample shall be taken from the floor of each room, hallway or stairwell selected. If there are fewer than four rooms, hallways or stairwells within the target housing or child-occupied facility then all rooms, hallways or stairwells shall be sampled.

(ii) Following exterior paint abatement, a visual inspection shall be conducted. All horizontal surfaces in the outdoor living area closest to the abated surfaces shall be found to be cleaned of visible dust and debris. The surfaces shall be recleaned when visible dust and debris is present. The visual inspection shall be conducted to determine the presence of paint chips on the dripline or next to the foundation below any exterior abated surface. Paint chips, if present, shall be removed from the site and disposed of according to federal, state and local requirements.

(iii) The rooms, hallways or stairwells selected for sampling shall be selected according to documented methodologies.

(iv) The certified and licensed inspector or risk assessor shall compare residual lead levels (as determined by laboratory analysis) from each single surface dust sample with clearance dust levels as defined in these rules for lead in dust on floors, interior window sills, and window troughs, divided by half the number of subsamples in the composite sample. If the residual lead level in a single surface dust sample equals or exceeds the applicable clearance dust levels or if the residual lead level in a composite dust sample equals or exceeds the applicable clearance dust levels divided by half the number of subsamples in the composite sample, the components represented by the failed sample shall be recleaned and retested until clearance dust levels are met.

(v) The clearance levels for lead in dust are less than 10 µg/ft2 for floors, less than 100 µg/ft2 for interior window sills, and less than 400 µg/ft2 for window troughs.

(k) In a multifamily dwelling with similarly constructed and maintained residential dwellings, random sampling for the purposes of clearance may be conducted provided:

(i) The certified individuals who work on or clean the residential dwellings do not know which residential dwelling will be selected for the random sample.

(ii) The randomly selected residential dwellings shall be sampled and evaluated for clearance according to subsection (8)(i) of this section.

(iii) A sufficient number of residential dwellings are selected for dust sampling to provide a 95 percent level of confidence that no more than five percent or 50 of the residential dwellings (whichever is smaller) in the randomly sampled population exceeds the appropriate clearance dust levels.

(l) An abatement report shall be prepared by a certified and licensed supervisor or project designer and shall include as a minimum the following information:

(i) Start and completion dates of abatement.

(ii) The name, address and telephone number of each certified firm conducting the abatement and the name of each supervisor or project designer assigned to the abatement project.

(iii) The occupant protection plan.

(iv) The name, address and signature of each certified and licensed inspector or risk assessor conducting clearance sampling and the date(s) that clearance sampling was performed.

(v) The results of clearance sampling and all soil analyses and the name of each laboratory conducting analysis of collected samples.

(vi) A detailed written description of the abatement, including abatement methods, location of rooms and/or components where abatement occurred, reason for selecting particular abatement methods for each component, and any suggested monitoring of encapsulants or enclosures.

(m) A clearance report shall be prepared by a certified inspector or risk assessor. The clearance report shall include the following information:

(i) The property address where the clearance sampling occurred.

(ii) The abatement clean-up completion date and time.

(iii) The date and time of clearance sampling.

(iv) Name and certification number of each inspector or risk assessor conducting the clearance.

(v) The signature of the inspector or risk assessor conducting the clearance.

(vi) Name, address, telephone number, and certification number of the certified firm employing the inspector or risk assessor.

(vii) Results of the visual inspection.

(viii) Identification of containment or noncontainment applications.

(ix) Identification of location(s) where clearance samples were collected.

(x) Name, address, and telephone number of the laboratory analyzing the collected samples.

(xi) All results of laboratory analysis on collected samples, including quality control results.

(xii) Documented methodology used for sampling.

(9) Sampling. Any paint chip, dust, or soil samples collected pursuant to this section shall be collected by a certified inspector or risk assessor. Such sampling shall incorporate sample quality control procedures and the samples shall be analyzed by a laboratory accredited under the National Lead Laboratory Accreditation Program (NLLAP).

(10) Composite sample. Composite dust sampling may only be conducted when conducting a lead hazard screen, risk assessment, or post-abatement activities. If conducted, the composite dust samples shall consist of at least two subsamples, every component that is being tested shall be included in the sampling, and shall not consist of subsamples from more than one type of component.

(11) Reports or plans. All lead-based paint activity reports or plans shall be maintained by the certified firms or individual who prepared the report for no fewer than three years and six months.

(a) The following reports must be submitted to the department as specified in WAC 365-230-100 and 365-230-220:

(i) Notification of lead-based paint activities course to take place.

(ii) Notification of lead-based paint activities course that has taken place.

(iii) Notice of abatement.

(b) All reports required by these rules may be submitted on forms available from the department. The exhibit referred to in this rule is not printed in this WAC. Copies are available as follows from department of commerce:

Lead-Based Paint Program

P.O. Box 42525

Olympia, WA 98504-2525

Telephone number: 360-586-5323

Website: www.commerce.wa.gov/lead.

Should Your Painter Use Lead Paint Swabs

Lead Paint Testing With Swabs?

Contractors that care hire us for XRF testing prior to any renovation work. Join the Pro Teams who do and call us today at 425.608.9553

The swabs are intended to provide an instant response for a user who is testing for the presence of lead in paint in a home. HybriVet Systems originally manufactured the kits until 3M purchased the company in 2011.

3M did not respond to inquiries about the accuracy of their test swabs from the Investigative Post. The company’s website states the swabs are “EPA recognized on drywall and plaster” and provide “superior accuracy and sensitivity.” A representative of the former makers of the kits, Hybrivet Systems, told the Rochester Democrat & Chronicle in 2007 that “we never developed the tests for dust.”Lead paint xrf

"No kit in the study achieved low rates of both false-positive and false-negative results. Two out of six kits were prone to false-negative results. Negative test results obtained with these two kits do not necessarily indicate the absence of lead. The other four kits had a tendency to produce false-positive results, even at levels of lead well below the federal thresholds." - 2015 EPA Study Overall, the rate of false negatives for the LeadCheck Swabs was 64% (sensitivity of 36%). Thus, nearly two-thirds of the samples taken according to spot test kit instructions for detecting lead in dust and received a negative result, hazardous levels of dust lead (i.e., ≥40 μg/ft2) were actually present. There are a number of possible reasons why the LeadCheck Swabs did not perform as well as expected for detecting lead in the dust under field conditions. First, the number of brown-colored swab results suggests that dirt may interfere with the overall sensitivity of the swabs. Many of the swabs turned some shade of brown between the pure yellow and pink/red color results discussed in the LeadCheck Swab instructions. This suggests that household dirt may interfere with the reaction between the dye in the LeadCheck Swabs and reactive lead in the dust. Dust wipes are analyzed using flame atomic absorption spectroscopy (FAAS), inductively coupled plasma emission spectrometry or other similar procedure, which detects total lead that has been dissolved and digested using strong acid and reflux, whereas the swabs may only detect free lead ions that have been dissolved using the reagent in the swabs, which is not a strong acid. Lead that is bound to other molecules or insoluble might not trigger the swabs’ chemical reaction. The results of this study suggest that LeadCheck Swabs do not reliably detect levels of lead in dust above 40 μg/ft2 using published methods under field conditions. The swabs did not accurately predict hazardous levels of dust lead loading for any studied surface (i.e., floors or sills) or substrate (i.e., painted or unpainted).

HUD, Sections 8 & King County Housing Authority view Lead Paint Testing:

Testing of specific surfaces, by XRF (x-ray fluorescence) or lab analysis, to determine the lead content of these surfaces, performed by a certified lead-based paint inspector or certified risk assessor. Lead Swabs are not allowed or accepted as a means of lead paint testing.

Lead-Based Paint Laws and Rules LEAD ABATEMENT PROFESSIONALS WAC 365-230 – Administrative rule that describes requirements for individuals and firms performing lead-based paint abatement, risk assessments, hazard screens, inspections, renovations, and dust sampling.NOTE: Washington Regulations are written to mirror the federal EPA LBP/RRP regulations with only one exception. To find this exception, please refer to WAC 365-230-200 (8) (g) and (h) Washington Business Licensing Requirements – Links to the Washington Department of Licensing business licensing webpage. Any firm applying for lead-based paint activities certification from the Department of Commerce must be licensed to do business in Washington and must provide their Uniform Business Identifier (UBI) number. CONTRACTORS AND PAINTERS Worker Protection and Safety Requirements - Links to the Washington Department of Labor and Industries Lead Safety webpage, including the Lead in Construction Rule. Employers must protect their employees from exposure to lead. Contractor Registration – Links to the Washington Department of Labor and Industries contractor registration webpage.

56% Of Homes Built In King County Were Built Before 1978

Any home constructed before 1978 may have lead paint. As a result, in 1991 the EPA stated that lead-based paint is considered the “number one environmental threat to children’s health in the United States.” More importantly, according to the EPA, lead paint removal should only be performed by A Certified Seattle Lead Paint Removal Contractor.

DON'T USE SWABS!! CALL US FOR XRF TESTING 425.608.9553

Need Lead Paint testing? We perform lead inspections, clearance testing, lead hazard screens, and lead paint risk assessments. Call 425.608.9553

Lead Paint XRF Testing For Demolished Buildings

LEAD PAINT TESTING - XRF

City of Sammamish requires Lead Paint testing for all Demolition projects. In Sammamish as a condition of a permit, the Owner / Applicant / Contractor is responsible for complying with Puget Sound Clean Air Agency (206-343-8800) requirements pursuant to Washington Administrative Code Section 173-400-075 regarding the removal of “friable asbestos”.

Lead paint test is required:

If the lead has been determined to be present, then as a condition of the demolition permit the following will be required by the applicant:

  1. Provide advanced community notification with actual demolition dates.
  2. Control dust using water from a water truck or existing water services. If you do not have a water service, you must obtain a water connection. If no water source of connection is available, you may apply for a hydrant permit to use water temporarily from a hydrant.
  3. Using fencing and other barriers to control the spread of dust during and after demolition.
  4. Protect the stormwater drainage system from sediment-laden runoff and loose particles. To the extent possible, use dikes, berms or other methods to protect overland discharge paths from runoff.
  5. Sweep streets gutters, sidewalks, driveways, and other paved surfaces in the immediate area of the demolition daily to collect and properly dispose of loose debris and garbage.
  6. Keep children and other pedestrians away from the site.
  7. Asbestos removal and disposal shall be performed in accordance with Puget Sound Clean Air Agency requirements and State Law.

If the coatings are found to contain detectable levels of lead and portions of this project area with lead-coating paint will be demolished and disposed of, a toxicity characteristic leachate procedure (TCLP) sample that is representative of the waste stream must be collected and analyzed per the requirements of WAC 173-303. Screen the building components to be removed using a field method such as portable XRF. Take representative samples of the components that field screening indicates are lead-contaminated and send for TCLP analysis. Segregate those materials that fail the TCLP test (i.e. have lead concentrations over 5.0 mg/l) for removal as dangerous waste. The remainder is solid waste. Selecting a representative sample: The most conservative approach is to sample every individual component. This may result in excessive and unnecessary sampling for some projects. An alternative approach is to sample each similarly contaminated surface (one sample of each room that has a different paint surface, one sample of each unique baseboard, trim, siding, etc.). Take a full cross-sectional piece of the component for linear components (trim, baseboards, windowsills, etc.). Take proportional amounts of the component for non-linear components (for a window take proportional amounts of any glass, wood, metal, paint, and glazing compound).

 

Need Lead Paint testing? We perform lead inspections, clearance testing, lead hazard screens, and lead paint risk assessments. Call 425.608.9553

Lead Paint - Why You Need Testing

LEAD PAINT XRF TESTING

Beginning April 22, 2010, federal law required that contractors performing renovation, repair, and painting projects that disturb more than six square feet of paint in homes, child care facilities, and schools built before 1978 must be trained, certified, and meet all Lead Safe Work Practices to prevent lead-based paint dust contamination.

Approximately 75 percent of homes in the Seattle area built prior to 1978 contain at least some lead paint. The likelihood that lead paint was used in a home increases with the structure’s age. The Environmental Protection Agency estimates that at least 19 million homes present lead-based paint hazards, and 4 million of these homes house children under the age of 6.

Lead paint inspections are a surface-by-surface investigation for lead-based paint. Pacific Northwest Inspections Group's Lead Consultants Lead Inspection includes testing for Lead Paint in all accessible interior rooms and all sides of the Exterior. Our testing is conducted using an XRF analyzer which uses an X-ray to detect lead-based paint. Benefits of XRF are: No cutting of paint chips, no laboratories, and no touchup painting Immediate, accurate instant results. We’ll tell you if there is any lead on-site with Safe effective testing. Since we don’t cut or score the wall paint, we eliminate exposing paint and creating a Lead hazard. Upon completion of our Lead Paint Survey, we provide a comprehensive report. The report will detail by room and component where if any, lead paint was identified and is valid for the life of the structure.

Lead in the home can cause serious long-term health problems, particularly for children, making it imperative for those living in pre-1978 homes to get lead testing. Lead exposure is dangerous to children even before they are born. Lead is a neurotoxin affecting the development and function of the central nervous system, red blood cells, and kidneys. Even low levels can be harmful. Lead exposure may lead to decreased intelligence, speech problems, attention deficit disorder, and learning disabilities. Poor muscle coordination, impaired bone and muscle growth, and hearing damage are other potential effects of lead exposure.

 

Contact with high levels of lead is more serious, with the potential for unconsciousness, seizures, and even death. Children can ingest lead-based paint in a number of ways. Deteriorating paint often flakes off in loose chips and dust. When children swallow these materials, they can develop lead poisoning. Lead dust easily collects on baby bottles, toys, and children’s hands. Sources of lead may include any areas with peeling and chipped paint such as window sills, doors, and walls, as well as soil around the house and lead water pipes or lead solder.

Adults who are exposed to lead may experience high blood pressure, fertility problems, nerve disorders, digestive problems, difficulty concentrating, and joint and muscle pain. Those involved in remodeling older homes risk lead exposure as older layers of paint are disturbed during the renovation process. Lead dust can be picked up on skin, hair, and clothing and transferred to other family members. There are several ways to test for lead in the home. You may take samples and send them to a lab, or you may obtain a do-it-yourself kit. Another method involves hiring professionals who are trained in the use of specialized equipment.

Besides making a visual inspection of lead-based paint location and condition, an inspector will use X-ray fluorescence or XRF. An XRF is a portable X-ray device capable of seeing through surfaces to detect any lead underneath. The inspector may also collect dust, paint, and soil samples for submission to a lab. Testing is especially important in situations where paint is deteriorating or when pregnant women, babies, and children live in a pre-1978 home. Once testing has been completed, action can be taken to protect the health of the home’s occupants.

Contaminated items will be replaced and the problematic paint covered with gypsum wallboard or sealant. Professionals can even remove the lead paint completely. It is especially important to keep the home’s occupants out of the area until the job is completed. The time and effort involved in removing lead hazards from the home are well worth it when you consider the cost of lead contamination to the health and well-being of the people who come into contact with it.

Inspectors are required by law to be State Certified. Call us for testing in your home or office 425.608.9553. Serving Seattle, Kirkland, Redmond, Woodinville, Renton, Kent, Bothell, Bellevue, Medina, and all of Puget Sound King County.

Risk Assessment and Lead Inspection

The table below shows the differences between the two types of investigations and why we require both to be done.

What's the Difference between a Risk Assessment and a Lead Inspection?

All of our inspectors carry the Lead Risk Assessors certification. This additional training allows us to not only perform lead testing, it allows us to discuss any of the risks associated with different building materials in your home. Standard lead inspectors are only allowed to collect samples and cannot provide advice or recommendations. Without the ability to provide recommendations, the value of lead testing is very limited.

Analysis, Content or Use Risk Assessment LBP Inspection Combination
Paint Deteriorated paint only Surface-by-surface Surface-by-surface includes deteriorated paint
Dust Yes Optional Yes
Bare Soil Yes, when locality indicates the possibility of soil lead hazards Optional Yes, when locally indicated
Water Optional Optional Optional
Air No No No
Maintenance Status Optional No Optional
Management Policies and Procedures Optional No Optional
Review of Previous Paint Testing Yes Yes Yes
Typical Uses 1. Interim controls
2. Building nearing the end of expected life
3. Sale of property or turnover
4. Documentation of absence of lead hazards for insurance or state requirements
1. Abatement
2. Renovation work
3. Weatherization
4. Sale of property or turnover
5. Remodeling or repainting
1. Addresses the presence of LBP and hazards in a comprehensive manner
2. Generates data for decision-making where both interim controls and abatement strategies may be used in building
3. May be more cost-effective than separate investigations
Final Report Generated Lead Hazard Control Plan including options for Interim Controls OR certification of LBP compliance Whether LBP is present and if so, where (lead concentrations for each surface tested) Presence and locations of LBP, recommendations for hazard control options

Call us today for an in-home XRF Lead Paint Inspection; serving the Seattle area for Residential and Commercial buildings... and yes we also test paint on manufacturing equipment, household goods, and toys.


Download a copy of the EPA Renovate Right Brochure

IT IS THE LAW!

Federal law requires contractors that disturb painted surfaces in homes, childcare facilities, and schools built before 1978 to be certified and follow specific work practices to prevent lead contamination. Always ask to see your contractor’s certification.

Federal law requires that individuals receive certain information before renovating more than six square feet of painted surfaces in a room for interior projects or more than twenty square feet of painted surfaces for exterior projects or window replacement or demolition in housing, childcare facilities, and schools built before 1978. 

Homeowners and tenants:

  1. Your renovators must give you this pamphlet before starting work.
  2. It is the LAW

Childcare facilities, including preschools and kindergarten classrooms, and the families of children under six years of age that attend those facilities:

  1. Renovators must provide a copy of this pamphlet to childcare facilities and general renovation information to families whose children attend those facilities.
  2. It is the LAW

Download a copy of the EPA Renovate Right Brochure

Need Lead Paint testing? We perform lead inspections, clearance testing, lead hazard screens, and lead paint risk assessments. Call 425.608.9553

Home Buyers and Lead Paint

Law requires that before being obligated under a contract to buy housing built prior to 1978, buyers must receive the following from the home seller: An EPA-approved information pamphlet on identifying and controlling lead-based paint hazards titled Protect Your Family From Lead In Your Home (PDF)Any known information concerning the presence of lead-based paint or lead-based paint hazards in the home or building. For multi-unit buildings, this requirement includes records and reports concerning common areas and other units when such information was obtained as a result of a building-wide evaluation. An attachment to the contract, or language inserted in the contract, that includes a "Lead Warning Statement" and confirms that the seller has complied with all notification requirements. Sample Seller&Owner's Disclosure of Information A 10-day period to conduct a paint inspection or risk assessment for lead-based paint or lead-based paint hazards. Parties may mutually agree, in writing, to lengthen or shorten the time period for inspection. Homebuyers may waive this inspection opportunity. If you have a concern about possible lead-based paint, then get a lead inspection before buying. Call us today @ 425.608.9553