Forbes magazine recently published an online article about a lead paint lawsuit in California. Why does that matter? Well, I’m not going to comment on the case. That isn’t what’s relevant to you, at least at this point. What I don’t want is you to be blindsided by a comment made by the author in this article. That comment may cause you problems.
So what did he say? He wrote: “…extensive government-sponsored studies showing that the best thing to do with lead paint is to leave it right where it is…”
I don’t know about you, but that’s the first I heard of it. I mean, we’re all following the RRP Rule to ensure that lead paint isn’t left alone and is handled in a safe manner so kids, clients, and workers don’t get sick. So I clicked through to the study. It’s a whopper and I didn’t read the whole 309 page thing (you can, if you want). However, I did read the introduction and conclusion, where results and recommendations from the study are put. You should read those sections, too. They’re not long.
In the introduction, the researchers say: “The study provides evidence that the lead hazard control activities as practiced by the participating programs can substantially reduce dust lead levels on floors, window sills and troughs and in most cases, the lead-in-dust remains well below pre-treatment levels for at least three years. More importantly, the activities were also associated with substantial declines in children’s blood lead levels (37% two years after treatment). [Bolding is me making a point.]
Then I went to the conclusion. The last sentence in the report says: “For the three-year period studied here, the data show that, with the exception of “clean-only” strategies, the hazard control methods employed by the HUD grantees succeeded in protecting children and creating lead-safe housing.” [Again, the bolding is me making a point.]
That seems pretty clear to me. Basically, the researchers are saying that using lead mitigation practices (like what you learn in RRP class) lowers the level of lead in home for a minimum of three years. Folks, that’s not leaving lead paint alone.
So how do you educate a customer who says something like: The government says lead paint should just be left alone. Can’t you leave it alone during your work on the house and lower your quote?
You can respond by:
- Reminding the homeowner that since you can’t avoid the lead paint, legally you have to implement safety measures.Ultimately, this will make the home safer for the homeowner and his/her children.
- Walk them through the Renovate Right pamphlet (which you were going to do anyway).
If they are still pushing back, suggest they visit the EPA Lead webpage. They can read for themselves exactly what the government says about lead hazards in the home. At the end of the day, hopefully the homeowner will make the right decision and hire you, the Lead-Safe Contractor.
Stay Healthy,
Peter & the LeadSMART Team
If you have questions about our course offerings or would like to discuss private training sessions, call our office and speak with Ken at 888-731-LEAD (5323) or 603-842-4282. We are here to help.