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Reducing Lead Hazards <br />Disturbing lead-based paint or <br />removing lead improperly can <br />increase the hazard to your family by <br />spreading even more lead dust around <br />the house. <br />• In addition to day-to-day cleaning <br />and good nutrition, you can <br />temporarily reduce lead-based paint <br />hazards by taking actions, such as <br />repairing damaged painted surfaces <br />and planting grass to cover lead- <br />contaminated soil. These actions are <br />not permanent solutions and will need <br />ongoing attention. <br />• You can minimize exposure to lead <br />when renovating, repairing, or painting by hiring an EPA- or state- <br />certified renovator who is trained in the use of lead-safe work <br />practices. If you are a do-it-yourselfer, learn how to use lead–safe <br />work practices in your home. <br />• To remove lead hazards permanently, you should hire a certified lead <br />abatement contractor. Abatement (or permanent hazard elimination) <br />methods include removing, sealing, or enclosing lead-based paint <br />with special materials. Just painting over the hazard with regular <br />paint is not permanent control. <br />Always use a certified contractor who is trained to address lead <br />hazards safely. <br />• Hire a Lead-Safe Certified firm (see page 12) to perform renovation, <br />repair, or painting (RRP) projects that disturb painted surfaces. <br />• To correct lead hazards permanently, hire a certified lead abatement <br />professional. This will ensure your contractor knows how to work <br />safely and has the proper equipment to clean up thoroughly. <br />Certified contractors will employ qualified workers and follow strict <br />safety rules as set by their state or by the federal government. <br />10