Harmful exposure to lead-based paint has long been known to pose a serious human health hazard, which may go unrecognized. Qualified professionals can abate hazardous lead exposure, however, if the problem is identified. From the time of the Industrial Revolution, it has been recognized that exposure to lead can cause serious neurologic damage. Children and adults alike may inhale dust particles, especially during renovation or preparation for repainting. The problems that can result from lead poisoning can be devastating.
Lead exposure can cause permanent damage to the brain and nervous system.
Behavioral and cognitive problems may develop in children, along with stunted growth, headaches, and hearing deficits. Adults may experience high blood pressure, nerve disorders, reproductive problems, muscle and joint pain, and memory and concentration deficits as a result of exposure to lead. Pregnant women, their fetuses, and young children are at special risk. In order to improve the identification of surfaces that pose this serious threat, new regulations, which require certain information to be disclosed in order for a sale or lease to be valid, became effective on December 6, 1996. The new Residential Lead-Based Paint regulations apply to all homes and apartments built before 1978.