Healthy People in Healthy Communities
Lead Poisoning Prevention
Does My Home Have Lead Paint?
The most effective way to find out is to use the services of a certified lead-based paint inspector or a risk assessor. An inspector can tell you if there is lead in the home and a risk assessor can tell you the extent of the hazard.
The older the home, the more likely it is that lead paint was used. This is especially true for homes built prior to 1950, but lead-based paints were widely used up to the time they were banned for residential purposes in 1978.
The presence of lead paint does not necessarily mean it's a hazard. To present a health threat, it must somehow enter the body. Paint that is well-cared for generally does not pose a danger. However, even in well-maintained homes, friction and impact surfaces, such as door jambs or sliding widows, can create fine lead dust that can be inhaled or swallowed.
Free Home Assessment
The Portland Regional Lead Hazard Control Program provides a free evaluation of lead hazards AND financial assistance to reduce lead-based paint hazards in housing occupied by qualified low and moderate income households. If your household includes a child under 6 years old, you may be eligible for assistance. More info»
The Healthy Homes Program at Josiah Hill III Clinic can help to identify lead poisoning hazards, indoor air quality and asthma triggers in your home. You may be eligible if you live in North or Northeast Portland, or in the Centennial neighborhood. Sign up»
Home Test Kits
Home test kits for lead-paint are available, but may not always be accurate. Contact the Portland Development Commission to request a free dust wipe kit. The home test kit can only tell you if lead is present on a surface. It cannot tell you how much lead there is, if there is a lead paint hazard, or what needs to be done to repair the hazard.
HEPA Vacuum Lending Program
The Community Energy Project has a sealed HEPA vacuum cleaner that you can borrow at
no cost to clean up lead dust.
Contact Perry Cabot at 503-284-6827.
More Information
Oregon Lead Poisoning Prevention Program
Lead-Safe Remodeling and Painting
www.oregon.gov/DHS/ph/leadpaint/remodel.shtml
Did You Know?
Home renovations and remodeling contribute to nearly half of the childhood lead poisonings in Oregon.
Lead-Safe Remodeling
These free booklets show you how to remodel your home safely.
Lead-Safe Remodeling»
Renovate Right»
Questions?
Call the Leadline
503-988-4000
The Leadline provides information and referrals for local lead programs and services.
Spanish, Russian, and Vietnamese interpreters are available.
Page updated April 8, 2010