Lead safe construction and remodeling
People can be exposed to lead from lead-contaminated dust derived from lead-based paint. Lead-based paint was used in tens of millions of homes across the country before it was banned in 1978. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) estimates that 24 million housing units in the United States still have significant lead-based paint hazards, including deteriorated paint and lead-contaminated house dust. The CDC also estimates that about 4 million of these units are home to young children.
Residential demolition, construction, repair, and renovation projects that disturb lead-based paint can create hazards that endanger workers, residents, and neighbors. If you own or reside in a home built before 1978, you should assume that it contains lead-based paint. Consult the EPA’s Renovate Right Pamphlet before planning or undertaking any work that could disturb lead-based paint in your home or property. Special precautions are required to avoid creating a hazard.
More information on requirements and best practices for home renovation work that may disturb lead-based paint will be coming soon.
In addition, the County is developing a new program to help prevent exposure to lead-based paint in homes and home-based daycares throughout Santa Clara County. The Lead Safe Homes Program will use settlement funds obtained through hard-fought litigation against former lead paint manufacturers to perform free lead hazard inspection and abatement services for private property owners and residents who qualify. The County expects to begin enrolling homes to receive free services from the Lead Safe Homes Program in 2022. Learn more about the Lead Safe Homes Program and to sign up for Program updates.