Lead dust testing is the most effective way to evaluate potential lead hazards in older homes and apartments. Lead particles often settle on floors, window sills, and other surfaces. When disturbed, they can become airborne or ingested — especially dangerous for young children.
Children under 6 years old – absorb lead more easily and are most vulnerable to developmental harm.
Women of childbearing age – exposure may affect reproductive health and pregnancy outcomes.
The primary pathway for exposure is hand-to-mouth contact, where children touch contaminated dust and then put their hands in their mouths.
Keep paint on friction and impact surfaces (windows, doors, stairs) intact.
Clean horizontal surfaces with wet methods or HEPA vacuums to remove dust.
Always use EPA-certified RRP (Renovation, Repair, and Painting) contractors during remodeling.
Perform post-renovation dust testing to confirm surfaces are safe.
The EPA has strengthened its standards for pre-1978 housing and child-occupied facilities. As of the new rule:
| Surface Type | Dust-Lead Action Level (Post-Abatement) |
|---|---|
| Floors | 5 µg/ft² |
| Window Sills | 40 µg/ft² |
| Window Troughs | 100 µg/ft² |
👉 Any reportable level of lead dust (detectable by an EPA-recognized lab) is now considered a lead hazard.
These standards are part of TSCA Sections 402/404 governing lead-based paint hazards.
Property owners and landlords must comply in most pre-1978 housing and child-occupied facilities.
Lead hazards also trigger real estate disclosure obligations under Section 1018.
Lead hazards are invisible to the eye. Only laboratory testing of dust wipe samples can confirm whether your home meets EPA safety standards.
📞 Call Angstrom Testing Services at 516-724-4574 to schedule professional lead dust testing or ask about compliance with EPA rules.
Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH)
Indoor Air Quality Association (IAQA)
American Board of Industrial Hygiene (ABIH)
Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, Restoration & Certification (IICRC)