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 - Get the Lead Out

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Lead - What To Do: Get The Lead Out

Cleaning Your House for Lead If you suspect lead contamination in your home or just want to play it safe, the cheapest way to reduce lead exposure is a good house cleaning. Before beginning this process, protect yourself from exposure by wearing plastic gloves, and, if possible, a face mask certified for lead exposure. This will greatly limit the possibility of inhaling lead dust.

  • Manually remove all visible loose paint chips and seal them in a plastic bag for disposal.
  • Do not use a vacuum cleaner or broom, as these will tend to stir up the fine lead dust.
  • Wet wipe all household surfaces that might be contaminated with lead dust. You can use a lead-specific detergent or an all-purpose non-abrasive cleanser.
  • The safest method of wet cleaning is to use a spray cleaner and paper towels.
  • After you wipe the surface with the paper towels, dispose of them. Do not use them again.
  • Once a paper towel has been used, it should be disposed of in a plastic bag and never re-used. Proper cleanup is very important.
  • If you use a bucket of water, it should be changed frequently during the cleaning process.
  • Dispose of all water down the toilet or sink.
  • After wet cleaning, a wet rinse should be performed using the same methods.
  • Never use cloth towels or sponges.
  • Wash your hands thoroughly.

    This cleaning process, while effective, is only a temporary solution that must be repeated frequently. It only addresses loose particles and does not eliminate the continuing process of surface deterioration. Only the elimination or enclosure of the lead source offers a permanent and long-term remedy.


    A visit to these web sites will give in-depth information on the proper methods for cleaning your home:

    http://www.hud.gov/lea/leahelp.html

    http://www.hud.gov/lea/leahome.html

    Professonal Removal or Encapsulation

    Depending on the severity of your lead problem, you may need to get professional help. A professional lead abatement contractor can assist you with removal of old lead paint from your home, or possibly coat lead-painted surfaces with a protective coating ­ a process known as encapsulation.

    Look in the Yellow Pages under Lead to find local contractors who can assist with your lead problem. In Illinois, you can also go to the Illinois Division of Environmental Health¹s web site to access a list of qualified contractors in your area. Always check the contractor's credentials and ask for references. Also get a signed bid and work proposal before entering into a contract. It is often a good idea to get at least two or three bids before deciding on the contractor you want for your job. Make sure the bid includes proper disposal of all lead-contaminated debris. Remember that you can ultimately be held responsible for any shoddy work or improper waste disposal done by those working for you. Make sure they're qualified.

    I can't afford a pro. Can I do it myself?

    Maybe, but check with your local health and building departments regarding any applicable rules that might apply or permits that may be required.

    For the City of East St. Louis, call:

    • Building Division: (618) 482-6615

    • East Side Health District: (618) 271-8722

    • St. Clair County Health Department: (618) 233-7769

    For the City of St. Louis, call:

    • Building Division: (314) 622-4671

    • Health Department Lead Control: (314) 658-1036

    It is strongly recommend that you hire a qualified contractor if you have the financial means to pay for lead abatement. If you perform the work yourself, take proper measures to safeguard you and your family's health. Several very helpful publications can be ordered through the US Goverment by calling 1-800-424-5323. You can go to http://www.hud.gov/lea/leahome.html for a wide variety of valuable information on lead abatement in residential properties.