Here is why :-
Exposure to lead, even at low levels, can cause a wide range of problems, including:
- permanently lowered IQ;
- learning and behavioural problems;
- delayed or reversed brain development;
- memory loss;
- stunted or slowed growth;
- hearing loss;
- anaemia;
- neurological or kidney damage;
- spontaneous abortion; and
- erectile dysfunction and fertility problems in males.
In extreme cases it can cause encephalopathy, coma or death.
OK, that’s the bad bit, now a bit of ‘why’:-
Early-to-Mid 1900s: No legal limits existed, and lead was heavily used for durability and drying. Historical paints frequently contained lead carbonate concentrations ranging from 1% to 50% by weight.
1968 (UK): The British Standard BS4310 categorized “low-lead” paint as having up to 1.5% (15,000 ppm) lead.
1978 (USA): The US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) effectively banned lead-based paint in residential properties, setting a strict limit of 0.06% (600 ppm) for consumer paints.
1992 (UK): Sale of lead-containing paint was officially banned in the UK, phasing out previous low-level allowances.
2008 (USA): The Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act lowered the US residential lead cap from 0.06% to 0.009% (90ppm), which remains the standard.
2010 (Global): The UN Environment Programme and WHO launched a global push to phase out lead in all paints, urging national limits to drop to 0.009%( 90ppm).
Here is something for those of us with a garage/outhouse or shed with old tins of paint. The shelf life of a lead-based paint in a can ranges from 10 to 15 years for unopened cans, provided it is stored properly. Once opened, it typically lasts 1 to 2 years if sealed tightly and kept in a climate-controlled area.
The longevity of older paints primarily depends on their base formula rather than their lead content:
- Oil-Based (Alkyd): Unopened, these can last up to 10 to 15 years. Once opened and properly resealed, they often remain usable for several years.
- Latex/Water-Based: Unopened, these last up to 10 years. Once opened, the shelf life drops to 2 to 5 years as air exposure increases the risk of bacteria and spoilage.
Factors Affecting Usability
- Storage Conditions: Paint should be stored at room temperature, away from freezing temperatures and extreme heat. Storing cans directly on cold, damp floors like concrete can cause spoilage.
- Contamination: If the paint smells sour, rotten, or like vinegar, it has gone bad and must be discarded.
Handling, Health & Disposal
- Health Hazards: Liquid paint containing lead is a hazardous waste.
- Disturbance: When the paint is fully dried, lead generally remains securely locked in the paint film, but sanding, scraping, or burning it releases highly toxic dust and fumes.
- Encapsulation: Paint in good, undisturbed condition can be safely painted over, provided the base surface is not sanded.
- Disposal: Due to the heavy metal content, old lead paint cannot be thrown in the regular household trash. It must be disposed of at your local municipal household hazardous waste facility.
The action of sanding or removing can be hazardous. Professional painters and decorators will always advise that older painted surfaces need testing.
This is what The HSE say about Lead in paint and how to safeguard against the effects. Remember, WE are all responsible for the affects our works may have on ourselves and others. Stay safe!
