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Hazardous Materials Testing
In addition to asbestos, older buildings are also likely to contain other materials considered hazardous to health, such as lead. Lead poisoning is a serious and sometimes fatal condition, which occurs when lead builds up in the body.
Prior to 1978, many homes in Canada were decorated with lead-based paint. The mere presence of lead in paint does not impose an immediate hazard if the material is in good condition and not likely to be disturbed.
In certain situations, leaving leaded paint alone is safer than trying to remove it. Applying vinyl wallpaper, paneling or wallboard over the painted area may provide and added safety measure.
There are various ways for you or your family to be exposed to lead. Exposure to lead through inhalation occurs when the painted area is disturbed through renovation processes such as demolition of walls, sanding or using heat guns to remove the paint resulting in dust and fumes that contain lead.
The most common route of exposure to lead is through ingestion, most often from peeling paint chips.
This is of particular concern in homes constructed before 1978 where young children are present for two reasons:
- Children’s growing bodies are able to absorb lead more easily.
- Young children and infants have a tendency to frequently put their hands and objects in their mouths
Lead poisoning may occur over a length of months or even years. Children are at most risk to being affected by household materials containing lead, as their brains and nervous systems are still in the process of development. The poisoning can cause severe physical and mental impairment. In order to insure the safety of yourself and your loved ones, it is important to contact a professional environmental inspection service.
Assurance Environmental provides lead testing and assessments for homes and buildings where lead paint may have been used. We provide the highest degree of care and the safest methods to minimize potential release and exposure sampling.
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