Health and Safety

Until the mid-1960s, lead pigments in oil-type binders were the most commonly used house paints in New Zealand. White lead use was banned in 1979, but red lead may still be used in some house and special-purpose paints. A reasonable number of older buildings still have lead paint on their walls – particularly ones which have been repainted over the years without earlier layers of paint being removed.

Lead from paint is only harmful when the paint or dust is swallowed or the fumes breathed in, as it may be when old lead paint is being removed from a surface. Lead poisoning can cause tiredness, poor sleep, moodiness, lack of appetite and stomach pains. The effect of lead is cumulative – it builds up in the body. Left untreated, lead poisoning can lead to brain damage and even death.

Because breathing in dust and fumes is the main way lead enters the body, it is most important that paint debris is prevented from becoming airborne during removal and clean-up. Power sanders should be fitted with a vacuum dust bag.  At all times, an efficient dust mask must be worn.

Dust and debris should be regularly collected as work proceeds and be safely contained (for example, in strong plastic bags) and disposed of at the toxic waste area of the local tip.  Dropsheets should always be used, fireproof ones if the paint is being burnt off.

Discuss with clients about the care they need to take, especially if there are young children or pets around.