How to Remove Paint According to California's OSHA
Removing paint always is a challenge, but removing the old lead-based paints can be especially dangerous. Lead in paint has been linked to a range of health problems, from behavioral problems and learning disabilities to seizures and death, with children 6 years and under found to be most at risk. The state of California has teamed up with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to remove lead-based paint from pre-1978 housing and child-occupied facilities. Federal law that went into effect April 22, 2010, requires all renovation contractors to be certified and to use lead-safe work practices. In addition, the California Division of Occupational Safety and Health has instituted its own rigorous requirements.
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Things You'll Need
- Lead testing kit
- Air-purifying respirators
- Protective work clothing: Coveralls, gloves, hats, shoes or disposable shoe coverlets and face shields or vented goggles
- Vacuums equipped with HEPA filters
- Blood tests administered by certified technicians
Instructions
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Test for lead in the paint to be removed.
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Complete a Lead-Work Pre-Job Notification form and submit it to the California Division of Occupational Safety and Health.
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Establish and implement a written compliance program.
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Erect signs warning of lead work area, prohibiting loitering, eating and smoking.
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Workers should be tested for lead and other toxins. Give employees initial blood test for lead and zinc protoporphyrin levels.
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Train workers on lead hazards and how to protect themselves.
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Protective clothing is a must. Require workers to put on protective work clothing.
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Remove paint.
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Vacuum up all waste and residual paint.
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Retest employees for lead and zinc every two months while exposed, then again six months later.
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Tips & Warnings
There are three common methods of removing paint: chemical, heat or abrasion.
When using a contractor, always ask for proof of an up-to-date license.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit old paint image by Christopher Hall from Fotolia.com blood testing image by John Keith from Fotolia.com painter image by Edward White from Fotolia.com
