Lead-Based Paint Information and Regulations
Residential Buildings and Child-Occupied Facilities built before 1978 are typically regulated when any paint is disturbed.
Note: Renovation and demolition activities in all residential buildings with more than four dwelling units, or when more than one building is involved in the project and in all public and commercial buildings may be regulated by the Asbestos Regulations.
History of Lead-Based Paint
Lead-based paint is paint containing more than 0.06% lead as a pigment. Lead is added to paint to speed up drying, increase durability, maintain a fresh appearance, and resist moisture that causes corrosion. It is one of the main health and environmental hazards associated with paint. Since 1978, paint with lead has been banned in the U.S. for domestic use, however lead-based paint may still be found in older properties painted prior to the introduction of such regulations.
Dangers of Lead-Based Paint
Lead is toxic to many body organs and tissues including the heart, bones, kidneys, and reproductive and nervous systems. It interferes with the development of the nervous system and is therefore particularly toxic to children, causing potentially permanent learning and behavior disorders. An infant developing in the womb of a woman who has an elevated blood lead level, is also susceptible to lead poisoning. Symptoms are nonspecific and may be subtle, and someone with elevated lead levels may have no symptoms.
Lead-Based Paint Regulations
The EPA began enforcing regulations for lead-based paint abatement in March of 2000 and for lead-based paint renovation, repair and painting in April of 2010. MDEQ was authorized to enforce these same regulations within the State of Mississippi in January of 2003 and March of 2010 respectively. The regulations require individuals to be trained and certified before they can offer to perform any lead-based paint activities as defined in the regulations. The regulations also require that information concerning the hazards of lead exposure be provided to the residents and property owners with this pamphlet. The regulations also require that MDEQ is notified before any activity occurs. Although violations of the Lead-Based Paint regulations can result in penalties, the greatest concern is the prevention of unnecessary lead exposure.
The Mississippi regulations can be found HERE.
A chart of the differences between the EPA and MS regulations can be found here
