Lead is a poison often found in old paint. Lead paint, and the dust that it turns into is the most commonly identified source of childhood lead poisoning. Lead poisoning can cause learning and behavioral problems in children. The use of lead paint in residential buildings was banned in NYC in 1960. Buildings built before 1960 may still have lead paint on the walls, windows, windowsills, doors, and other surfaces. If the paint begins to peel or home repairs are done unsafely, lead paint and dust can spread around your home. When children put their hands and toys in their mouths, they can swallow lead dust.
Dangers Of Lead Paint Hazards Found In The Home
To help protect children from lead poisoning, the law requires building owners to identify and fix lead paint hazards in apartments where children age 5 or younger live or routinely spend 10 or more hours per week. These laws apply if the building has rental units and was built before 1960 (or between 1960 and 1978 if the owner knows that the building has lead paint).
Lead paint hazards include peeling or damaged lead paint; lead paint on crumbling plaster or rotted wood; lead paint on doors and windows that touch, stick or rub together; and lead paint on windowsills and surfaces that children may chew on.
History of Lead-Based Paint
Lead-based paint has a long history of use in the United States, dating back to the early 19th century. It was prized for its durability and moisture resistance and was commonly used in homes, schools, and other buildings. However, it was not until the mid-20th century that the dangers of lead exposure began to be fully understood.
In 1978, the US government banned the use of lead in the paint due to its toxicity, but millions of homes and buildings constructed before that time still contain lead-based paint. In New York City, lead-based paint was commonly used in buildings constructed before 1960.
Lead-based paint can pose a serious health risk, particularly to young children, as lead exposure can lead to developmental delays, cognitive impairment, and other health problems. As a result, regulations were put in place to require lead-based paint inspections and remediation in certain circumstances, such as when renovating or demolishing a building.
Today, lead-based paint remains a significant public health concern, and efforts continue to be made to reduce its prevalence and protect those who may be at risk of exposure.