Lead
in a natural mineral used in a multitude of industrial applications. One of the
most common uses of lead was as an ingredient in paints for well over three hundred
years. Lead-based paint was considered to be of high-quality especially for use
on the exteriors or high moisture areas of homes and buildings and on industrial
structures. Although adults can experience significant health problems from exposure
to deteriorating or disturbed lead-based paint, it has been shown to be an even
more serious threat to children. Exposure to even small amounts of toxic lead
dust can cause permanent neurological problems for children including behavioral
disorders and loss of intelligence. Because of this risk, the US EPA, HUD and
OSHA require that professionals who identify, plan and carry out lead-based paint
abatement or deleading operations be properly trained and certified. |
