If that old paint is chipped, peeling or cracking, if it's around doors or windows, if it's on sills or baseboards, or if it's on a surface that a young child can mouth or chew, it can be a hazard, particular to children and women who are pregnant or who want to become pregnant. In some cases, you may not need to do anything. Task Force report confirmed that old lead paint that is well-maintained does not present a hazard and is best left undisturbed. But a lead testing expert will need to evaluate your lead paint to ensure that leaving it undisturbed is the best strategy for your home. Lead dust can form when old lead paint is dry scraped, dry sanded, or heated.
Dust also forms when painted surfaces bump or rub together.
Lead dust can get on surfaces and objects that people touch. Settled lead dust can re-enter the air when people vacuum, sweep, or walk through it. However you look at it, you should have an expert evaluate your lead paint, and help you decide what to do next. In particular, don't ever try to remove old lead paint by yourself. It is absolutely essential that a professional contractor trained in proper handling and removal of lead-based paint performs the job.