Safe lead paint removal methods
If you have decided to remove the paint, choose a safe removal method. Different ways of removing lead paint create different risks to health, which need to be properly controlled.
Safe methods include:
Wet scraping
Chemical strippers
Wet hand sanding
Low-temperature heat processes
Dry power sanding with HEPA vacuum attachment sanding.
Wet scraping
Risk
- Dust may be produced during the scraping process if paint is not wet properly, spreading flakes of paint around the worksite.
Control
- Wear a half face respirator with P2 particulate filter during removal and clean up.
- Use plastic drop sheet that has the edges raised with wooden studs to collect water.
- Collect paint debris properly.
Chemical strippers
Risk
Some strippers contain flammable solvents which can burn the skin or produce vapours that are highly toxic. Even after chemical stripping has been done, sanding after this method may still produce lead dust.
Control
- Wear a half face respirator for organic vapours, safety glasses, overalls and chemically resistant gloves. If further sanding is required after applying a chemical stripper, wear a combined particulate and organic vapour filtration cartridge respirator.
- Consult the MSDS for further information.
- Ensure windows and doors are open.
Wet hand sanding
Risk
Dust may be produced if paint is not wet properly before sanding. Fine lead residue is left after water dries.
Control
- Wear a half face respirator with P2 particulate filter during removal and clean up.
- Use plastic drop sheet that has the edges raised with wooden studs to collect water.
- Wash down surfaces carefully.
Low-temperature heat processes
Risk
This method is unlikely to produce lead fume unless the paint smokes from too much heat being applied. Dust may also be produced during the scraping process if the paint has started to reharden.
Control
- Wear a half face respirator with P2 particulate filter if smoke is present. Toxic fumes can be generated at temperatures as low as 200ēC and heat guns should be controlled to ensure that this temperature is not exceeded.
- Scrape softened paint directly into a disposable container before it rehardens to avoid having to sand or scrape to clean it up.
Dry power sanding with HEPA vacuum attachment sanding
Risk
Lead dust may be generated if the shroud of the sander extends beyond the surface being sanded or if the sander is not kept flat on the surface.
Control
- Training and experience.
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