LEAD SAFETY

The RE Store is an EPA Lead-Safe Certified Firm under the Renovation, Repair, and Painting (RRP) Rule. Beginning April 22, 2010, contractors performing renovation, salvage, repair and painting projects that disturb lead-based paint in occupied homes, child care facilities, and schools built before 1978 must be certified and must follow specific work practices to prevent lead contamination.

The RE Store Salvage Crews participated in lead safety certification courses and fully adopt the recommended strategies for lead dust containment, exposure prevention, and clean up. We are committed to educating our customers about lead exposure hazards and providing a safe working environment for our staff.

Please take a moment to learn about how you can reduce the risk of lead poisoning in your own home.

Getting the lead out

Good news! The Center for Disease and Control Prevention (CDC) says that the efforts of the last twenty years to reduce lead pollution has been very successful. Only 1.4 percent of American children today have elevated lead levels in their blood compared to 9 percent in 1988. We need to stay vigilant because lead can affect childhood brain development.

Lead shows up in paint and dust in homes built before 1978. It also shows up in soil, water from older plumbing systems, and unfortunately in (recalled) toys. It can also be found in pottery glaze from other countries.

How do you keep 
the lead out?

The CDC recommends that pregnant women and young kids keep clear of remodeling projects in pre-1978 buildings. Keep lead out by washing toys, floors, and windowsills regularly. If you work in construction and have young children, be sure to bag them before arriving home. Lead is tracked into a house on clothing and shoes. Find more lead safety precautions and info on the CDC website.