Regulated Limits of Lead in Paint
Lead is a naturally occurring element found in trace amounts in various parts of our environment, including the air, soil, and water. However, it’s important to be aware that lead can also be present in extreme concentrations in our homes in the form of paint, hunting ammunition, and in lead batteries. Lead exposure is toxic to humans and animals, potentially causing harmful effects on the digestive, nervous, respiratory, and reproductive systems.
Lead in Paint: Then and Now
Before 1978, lead was commonly used in paint to improve durability, resist moisture, and speed up drying. However, due to growing awareness of its toxicity, the Consumer Products Safety Commission set strict limits on the lead content in paint starting in 1977.
- New Paint: Since 2009, the lead content in new paints is restricted to a maximum of 0.009%.
- Old Paint: The Residential Lead-Based Paint Hazard Reduction Act (1992) defines any old paint containing 0.5% lead by weight as “Lead-Based Paint.” This is equivalent to 5,000 mg of lead per 1 kg of paint (5,000 mg/kg).
If you live or work in a building constructed before 1978, there’s a higher likelihood that lead-based paint may be present.
Test Your Paint for Lead
LCS Laboratory provides a fast and reliable solution for lead analysis in paint. Using Ionized Coupled Plasma (ICP) analysis, following the EPA 3050B method, we analyze paint samples and report the lead content in mg/kg.
Once you receive your results, you can compare the lead concentration in your paint to regulatory limits, such as the 0.5% threshold set by the Residential Lead-Based Paint Hazard Reduction Act.
How to Submit a Sample for Testing
Submitting a sample is simple:
- Collect a small sample of paint (about the size of a dime or ¼ teaspoon).
- Place each sample in a sealed Ziplock bag. If you’re submitting multiple samples, make sure to label each one clearly (e.g., “Paint from kitchen wall” or “Garage door”).
- Complete the request form and include it with your sample shipment.
- Ship your samples to LCS Laboratory for testing.
Why Test for Lead?
Testing for lead in paint can help you ensure the safety of your home or workplace, especially if you’re renovating or purchasing an older property. Identifying and managing lead-based paint can help prevent exposure and protect your health and that of your family or occupants.
Order and prepay the test online:
Contact Us Today
Thank you for choosing LCS Laboratory for your lead testing needs. If you have any questions or would like more information on how to submit your paint samples, feel free to reach out to us at info@lcslaboratory.com.
