Contractors in Los Angeles Face New Lead Regulations

March 22, 2010 - PRLog -- The Toxic Substances Control Act will soon require contractors performing renovations, repairs and painting projects that disturb lead-based paints in residential buildings, child care facilities and schools built before 1978 to be certified and follow specific work practices.  The new regulations go into effect next month and will impact thousands of contractors in Los Angeles, CA and surrounding areas.

Many building renovation activities such as sanding, cutting and demolition can create environments that expose children, workers and other occupants to lead dust.  Even though the use of lead in paint has been banned since 1978, its past still impacts the public over three decades later.  

Lead is of particular concern to young children as their growing bodies can absorb more lead and their brain and nervous systems are more sensitive to its damage.  These new regulations take effect the 22nd of April and are meant to protect children, the public and contractors from exposure.  

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), “The most common sources of lead exposure for children are chips and particles of old lead paint. Although children may be directly exposed to lead from paint by swallowing paint chips, they are more commonly exposed by swallowing house dust or soil contaminated by leaded paint.”

LA Testing, one of California’s largest lead laboratories, has been providing lead and other heavy metals testing services, kits and supplies since the company opened for business.  “Lead can be very dangerous and these new regulations should help protect the public from unnecessary exposure,” reported Ben Sublasky, National Director of Client Services for LA Testing and EMSL Analytical.  “Lead can cause children to suffer from hyperactivity, hearing loss, stunted growth, learning disabilities, damaged nervous systems and diminished brain functions, so prevention is critical.”

For additional lead resources or to learn more about lead and other environmental testing services please visit www.LATesting.com, email info@LATesting.com or call (800) 755-1794.

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About LA Testing and EMSL Analytical, Inc:

LA Testing and EMSL Analytical are providers of environmental testing services and products to professionals and the general public. The companies have an extensive list of accreditations from leading organizations as well as state and federal regulating bodies.