-Lead Based Paint Hazards-

Housing Preservation Program
Homeowner Information
Lead-Based Paint Hazards

LEAD-BASED PAINT. Lead-based paint can be present in both exterior and interior surfaces in apartments and homes. This type of paint may be found in homes built before 1978 and may be present in our City's older housing and buildings, even after periodic repainting. Lead-based paint can resurface and pose a hazard when paint surfaces crack, scale, peel, chip or become loose. This most frequently occurs on walls, stairs, porches, railings, windows, doors, woodwork, and in hallways.

HEALTH HAZARDS. Lead poisoning is a serious and continuing health hazard in our country. It can endanger any occupant of housing. However, children and infants are usually its victims when paint chips are eaten or chewed. Lead poisoning, even from small amounts, may cause mental retardation, blindness, paralysis and death.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS? At first there may be no obvious signs of lead poisoning. Symptoms appear as any number of childhood diseases. If the child has continuing and chronic stomachaches, vomiting, headaches, loss of appetite or the child frequently lacks energy, it may be a warning sign.

WHERE TO SEEK HELP. We advise and encourage any family with a child under the age of seven to be tested for elevated blood levels. Ask your doctor about this screening. The Los Angeles County Health Department offers lead-based paint screening and treatment if necessary. Some or all of the cost for screening may be paid by Medi-Cal.

PREVENTION. Lead-based paint hazards may be present in water leaks from faulty plumbing and peeling and flaking walls and ceilings. Help protect your child's health:

1. Use a stiff broom or brush and remove loose pieces and all dust from walls, woodwork, ceilings and floors;
2. Carefully place the sweepings in a paper bag or wrap them in newspaper and put in a covered trash can;
3. Continually check for chipped or flaked paint and keep out of children's reach.
4. Have your child tested for lead poisoning and treated if required.

As evidenced by my signature, I have read this required information on the hazards of lead-based paint.



If you have any questions call Barbara Banks at (626) 939-8432.


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