Lead inspectors test for lead-based paint hazards in homes and buildings, using an XRF analyzer. They follow HUD guidelines and submit reports to owners or agencies. Abatement may be necessary, and clearance tests are required after remediation. Homeowners and rental property owners may also request inspections. Licensing requirements vary by state.
A lead inspector’s primary responsibility is to conduct tests to see if there is a presence of lead-based paint hazards in a home, residential unit, residential building, or housing development. Inspectors not only perform surface-to-surface analysis on the exterior and interior of painted components, they also test surfaces that are finished with other coatings, such as stains, varnishes or wallpapered surfaces. Many inspectors can also test for lead, dust, bare soil and water. Inspectors must follow an inspection protocol based on guidelines established by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).
There are generally three instances where a lead inspector is called upon to perform lead-based paint tests. First, they are required to conduct an assessment to identify the presence of lead paint hazards in residential properties built before 1978. Testing is usually performed on interior and exterior surfaces. Tested components can include walls, floors, and doors. Windows and ceilings are also subjected to analysis. When a lead inspector visually inspects a surface that is intact or determined to be in good condition, the test is usually performed on horizontal surfaces in adjacent areas to check for the presence of lead dust.
Lead inspectors use equipment called an X-ray fluorescence (XRF) analyzer to evaluate a surface for the presence of lead-based paint. Upon completion of testing, the lead inspector must submit a report to the owner or agency requesting the assessment. If the property fails inspection and it is determined that there is a risk of lead-based paint, the problem must be corrected within a certain period of time. Typically, very specific procedures required by the HUD must be followed to remove the risk. The process of removing or eliminating a lead paint hazard is called mitigation.
Abatement may include removing, encapsulating or wrapping the identified lead paint hazard; in some cases, the surface can be sanded and repainted. After a licensed lead abatement contractor completes the job, a lead inspector is called in to perform a release sampling. The lead inspector usually samples clearances at locations within the work area specified in lead paint regulations to determine if the abatement process has been completed in accordance with federal regulations. This includes properly cleaning the shrink workspace.
In 1998, HUD began requiring clearance tests after remodeling, repairing, or painting any housing receiving federal funding. Effective April 2010, the US Environmental Protection Agency (US-EPA) will require contractors to prove they followed prescribed regulations to properly clean certain impacted areas identified as lead paint hazards in any occupied facility or dwelling. by children built before 1978. In both cases, clearance must be performed by a Chief Inspector or other authorized person.
Many homeowners have their properties inspected after they have completed remodeling or repair work. This is to ensure that proper cleaning has been carried out and that there is no risk of lead paint. Many rental property owners conduct inspections prior to renting a rental unit to document the absence of lead paint hazards.
The requirements to become a licensed and certified lead inspector depend on the state in which the test is conducted. Generally, lead inspectors must have at least a high school diploma or equivalent. They are required to complete an accredited training program where they will learn the basic knowledge and skills needed to become a lead inspector.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
