Understanding the Risks of Lead Paint Exposure
Lead-based paint was widely used in residential and commercial buildings before federal regulations banned it in 1978 due to its serious health risks. Many properties built before this time still contain lead-based paint, especially in window frames, doors, walls, and trim. Over time, this paint can deteriorate, producing toxic dust that poses a danger to occupants.
For homeowners, landlords, school administrators, and business owners in Bakersfield, Kern County, and throughout California, addressing lead contamination is a critical step toward ensuring a safe environment. Professional lead paint removal services are the only reliable way to eliminate these hazards, preventing long-term health effects and regulatory violations.
A.S.I. Inc. is a licensed hazardous material removal contractor specializing in lead abatement for residential, commercial, and institutional properties. Our team follows strict EPA and OSHA regulations, ensuring safe, compliant, and effective lead removal solutions.
Health Risks Associated with Lead Exposure
Lead exposure is particularly harmful to children, pregnant women, and workers who spend extended periods in contaminated environments. Even low levels of lead exposure can lead to significant health problems, including:
- Cognitive and Developmental Issues – Lead poisoning in children can cause learning disabilities, reduced IQ, and behavioral disorders.
- Neurological and Cardiovascular Damage – Long-term exposure can contribute to high blood pressure, kidney damage, and nervous system disorders in adults.
- Pregnancy Complications – Lead exposure during pregnancy increases the risk of miscarriage, premature birth, and developmental problems in newborns.
- Respiratory Issues and Organ Damage – Inhaled lead dust can accumulate in the lungs, causing chronic respiratory conditions and organ toxicity.
Because lead-based paint is still present in millions of structures across California, addressing these risks through professional lead paint removal is crucial to maintaining a safe, compliant, and habitable environment.
How to Identify Lead-Based Paint in Your Property
If your home, school, or business was built before 1978, it is important to test for lead-based paint before renovations, demolition, or repainting projects. Even undisturbed lead paint can pose risks, as normal wear and tear can cause deterioration over time.
Signs that your property may contain lead-based paint include:
- Age of the Building – Homes, schools, and businesses constructed before 1978 are likely to contain lead paint.
- Chipping or Peeling Paint – Deteriorating surfaces on windows, doors, trim, or walls may indicate lead-based paint.
- Visible Dust Residue – Lead dust, which can be invisible to the naked eye, accumulates in areas with friction, such as doorways and windowsills.
- Renovation or Demolition History – If previous construction projects were completed without proper lead abatement procedures, contamination may still be present.
If you suspect your property has lead-based paint, A.S.I. Inc. offers professional lead testing and safe removal, ensuring compliance with California state laws and federal safety regulations.
A.S.I. Inc.’s Professional Lead Paint Removal Process
Step 1: Lead Inspection and Testing
Before removal, our team conducts a comprehensive lead inspection using EPA-certified lead testing methods. We analyze paint samples, dust, and air quality to assess contamination levels and determine the most effective removal strategy.
Step 2: Containment and Safety Measures
To prevent lead dust from spreading, we establish a sealed containment area using industry-standard protective barriers, ventilation systems, and negative air pressure units. This step is essential for maintaining a safe work environment and ensuring occupants are not exposed to hazardous materials.
Step 3: Safe Lead Paint Removal and Disposal
Our team utilizes specialized removal techniques, including:
- Encapsulation – Applying a protective barrier over lead-based paint to prevent exposure.
- Wet Scraping and Stripping – Carefully removing lead-based coatings while minimizing airborne dust.
- Component Replacement – In cases of severe contamination, replacing affected surfaces may be the safest option.
Following EPA guidelines, all removed materials are securely contained and transported for hazardous waste disposal in compliance with California environmental regulations.
Step 4: Final Cleaning and Clearance Testing
After the removal process, we conduct a thorough cleaning using HEPA vacuums and specialized cleaning agents to eliminate any remaining lead dust. We then perform clearance testing and air monitoring to ensure the area is 100% lead-free before allowing occupants to return.
Who Needs Professional Lead Paint Removal?
A.S.I. Inc. provides certified lead abatement services for:
- Homeowners and Landlords – Ensuring rental properties meet state and federal lead safety regulations.
- School Districts and Educational Facilities – Creating a safe learning environment by removing lead hazards from classrooms, cafeterias, and play areas.
- Commercial Property Owners – Protecting employees, tenants, and customers from lead exposure in offices, retail spaces, and multi-unit buildings.
- Government and Military Buildings – Providing lead remediation solutions for federal and municipal properties.
California Regulations for Lead Paint Removal
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) enforce strict regulations for lead paint removal, including:
- Lead Renovation, Repair, and Painting Rule (RRP Rule) – Requires certified professionals for renovations in pre-1978 buildings.
- Title 17 of the California Code of Regulations – Establishes procedures for safe lead removal, worker protection, and disposal.
- HUD Lead Safe Housing Rule – Requires lead hazard reduction in federally assisted housing.
A.S.I. Inc. is fully licensed and certified, ensuring compliance with all local, state, and federal regulations.
Contact A.S.I. Inc. for a Free Lead Paint Removal Consultation
If your property was built before 1978, lead exposure could be a serious risk. A.S.I. Inc. provides expert lead paint removal in Bakersfield, Kern County, and throughout California, helping homeowners, businesses, and institutions create safer environments.
Our certified team offers:
- Comprehensive lead testing and inspections
- Safe and compliant lead paint removal
- Clearance testing and air quality verification
- Affordable and efficient solutions
Call (866) 327-2900 today or visit https://asi-inc.net/ to schedule your free consultation and ensure your property is lead-free.