Remodeling and repair projects on homes built before 1978 can create many lead-bearing wastes including paint chips, door frames, windows, drop cloths, chemical stripper sludge, wastewater, sponges, filters and tape.
- Keep all potential lead-bearing wastes out of the reach of children and pets.
- Seal smaller debris like drop cloths, paint chips, sponges, gloves and disposable work clothes used during remodeling and cleanup in heavy-duty garbage bags.
- Wrap larger debris in two layers of 6 mil plastic sheeting and seal with strong tape.
- Liquid wastes, such as used paint strippers, must be solidified by mixing with an absorbent like kitty litter and allowed to dry completely before disposal.
- Other household lead-bearing wastes such as batteries, thermostats and electronics should be recycled.
- Household lead-bearing waste is exempt from hazardous waste regulatory requirements and can be disposed of in the trash whether generated by the homeowner or their contractor.
Resources
- Residential waste management
- Household hazardous waste collection programs
- Preparing products to make them safer for disposal.
- Residential electronics and computer waste.