Lead Abatement and Removal Key Terms

Find out key terms when safely removing lead from your home, business or project
By Nikki Davis Removing lead is a hazardous job, and being aware of the terms and entities involved in the process will help you safely prepare for the project. Lead paint abatement should always be done only after you have checked with your local health department for guidelines. Even then, you should consider hiring a contractor. If possible, it is always best to let a certified professional do the work. Regardless of who handles the job, make sure all of the proper safety precautions are taken for your family or clients, and make sure that proper follow-up testing is done to make sure the abatement was successful. Learn more about these key terms: abatement, encapsulation,methylene chloride,
 
HEPA vacuum, paint chalking and the 
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

Abatement

Abatement is the removal of lead-based paints through a heat gun, chemical means, removing or replacing its components, scraping it off or using an encapsulating material.
Try: Learn more about lead-abatement processes from Homeguard Environmental.

Encapsulation

Encapsulation of lead-based paint as a removal method involves painting or applying a liquid, durable or rigid material to cover the original paint. It is an option where the original paint is still intact and is a less expensive option than sanding or scraping.
Try: Find out from PB Gast about the encapsulation process.

Methylene chloride

Do not use chemical removers that contain methylene chloride for lead abatement. Methylene chloride is common in general paint strippers.
Try: Heed the warnings of the Rhode Island Department of Health on not using methylene chloride-based paint strippers to remove lead-based paint.

HEPA vacuum

High efficiency particulate air (HEPA) vacuums have a special filter that traps the lead dust particles.
Try: Learn more about HEPA vacuums from the Michigan Department of Community Health.

Paint chalking

Paint chalking is just as hazardous as peeling, chipping or cracking when it comes to lead-based paints. It is when a fine powder residue develops on your painted surface.
Try: Learn about paint chalking from House-Painting-Info.

U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) oversees established contractor guidelines for lead-based paint removal.
Try: Learn HUD's stance on lead-based paint and what needs to be done about it.