Aug 23 2005
When re-decorating older homes (mainly those built before the 1960s), householders should be aware that any remaining old paint could contain lead and should therefore be treated with care. A leaflet explaining the problems and solutions is being made available in DIY outlets, doctors surgeries and ante-natal clinics to advise new, and prospective, parents on the need for special care when removing old paint from the nursery, and other rooms in the house.
If the paintwork is in good condition, it can be painted over with no problems. But if the paintwork is in bad condition it might be best to remove it, although special care must be taken to ensure that any paint dust or fumes created are not inhaled or ingested, especially by children.
Lord Bach, Minister with responsibility for chemicals, said: "This leaflet is being re-issued now as summer is a time when many people take the opportunity to decorate. And many new parents often repaint when converting a room to a nursery. The leaflet explains simple actions to ensure that children are protected from inhaling any lead dust when their house is redecorated."
An electronic copy of the leaflet is downloadable from www.defra.gov.uk/environment/chemicals/lead/index.htm