On April 22,2010, a federal law was passed that requires all contractors performing renovations such as window replacements in homes, schools, or child care facilities built before 1978 be certified and trained in procedures to prevent lead contamination.
Lead exposure is harmful to everyone but especially children under the age of six that are in a critical development stage of life. Pregnant women can also pass along lead poisoning to their fetuses. Lead affects the brain and nervous system, causing reduced I.Q., learning disabilities and behavioral problems. Even in low level exposure, the danger of lead can result in high blood pressure, hypertension, nerve disorders, memory problems and muscle/joint pains.
Window replacement can stir up lead dust, which is the most dangerous hazard to lead exposure.
Unfortunately, many homeowners are not aware of the dangers of lead exposure when replacing their windows, and many window contractors are not properly educating homeowners or neglecting to perform the required “safe” procedures to protect families. This is mainly due to ignorance, cost cutting or simply the fear of losing a sale.
Federal Law requires all window replacement contractors, and any others who disturb the surfaces containing lead paint, to distribute “The Lead-Safe Certified Guide to Renovate Right,” among other guidelines and procedures. Failure to comply with the EPA lead based paint procedures and requirements can cost the offending replacement window company $37,500 for the first offense.
If a company doesn’t care enough to properly educate and protect you and your family and their own workers from lead poisoning, then there are probably other corners that they are cutting on your project as well. At North Georgia Replacement Windows, we take the EPA lead based paint procedures for window replacement very seriously and so should you.
For more information or to report a company who has put your family in danger of lead poisoning, please visit www.epa.gov/lead/pubs/leadinfo.htm or call 1-800-424-LEAD (5323).
