There is a wide range of lead-based paint regulations for the state of California, and it’s
critical to abide by them to avoid being penalized under state law. However, not all
residential property owners and construction professionals are familiar with the
regulations. Let’s take a look at the history of lead paint, as well as some of the laws that
apply to individuals in the state of California.
Lead Regulation in the United States
Although lead-based legislation has been around since the 1950s, according to the U.S.
Department of Housing and Urban Development, nationwide regulation did not officially
come until 1971. It was introduced with the Lead-Based Paint Poisoning Prevention Act,
which prohibited the use of lead-based paint in residential structures “constructed or
rehabilitated by the Federal government or with Federal assistance.”
In 1973, an amendment to the LBPPPA stated that lead-based paint should be removed
from pre-1950 housing, which is more likely to have the dangerous material.
The ingestion of paint chips contaminated with lead-contaminated dust or soil can
potentially cause behavioral problems in children, in addition to hearing issues and
damage to the brain and central nervous system. Adults may experience reproductive
issues, high blood pressure and digestive disorders.
Residential Lead Laws in California
In the state of California, there is a series of laws and regulations that residential property
owners must abide by to avoid the dangers of lead. The Residential Lead-Based Paint
Hazard Reduction Act of 1992 states that individuals must permanently remove lead-based paint hazards in accordance with federal standards. Additionally, individuals must test residential areas following removal. Only certified lead testers may be used to for this process. More information on the act can be found on the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development website.
Construction Lead Laws in California
T8 CCR Section 1532.1 was created for construction workers in the state of California. It is
designed to protect workers from lead exposure and the dangers of the chemical.
Construction workers must establish and implement a compliance program for Section
1532.1, and they need to provide a written Pre-Job Notification to the nearest Division of
Occupational Safety and Health Cal/OSHA office 24 hours before the start of a project.
Under California regulations, workers must assess the level of lead exposure on their job
site, as well as regularly gauge lead levels as the project progresses. Failure to abide by any
of T8 CCR Section 1532.1 can result in fines up to $70,000. Construction site management
may also be responsible for medical removal payments to workers with high blood lead
levels, as well as job shutdowns. Additional information on T8 CCR Section 1532.1 can be
found on the State of California’s website.
Although lead paint laws have only been around for about 30 years, they are having a considerable impact on the effects of the chemical on people across the country. Abiding by regulations, such as those established in California, can ensure that the health of residential property owners and construction workers is not compromised in the future.