ABSTRACT
A certified lead-based paint (LBP) inspector can conduct an LBP survey for US Department of Housing and Urban Development-financed projects. The LBP surveys are guided by two concepts: room equivalents and testing combinations. LBP abatement is governed mainly by guidelines, although some states have their own regulations regarding LBP abatement. Encapsulation is the process by which the LBP-covered surface is coated with either a liquid-applied coating or an adhesive material, such as wallpaper. The primary difference between enclosure and encapsulation is that for enclosure the barrier is rigid, typically applied with screws, nails, or other such materials, whereas with encapsulation, the material adheres to the surface without the aid of such materials. Occupational Safety and Health Administration requires that workers wear proper personal protective equipment to protect them from lead inhalation. An initial exposure assessment will allow the contractor to determine the requisite level of respiratory protection to be worn by the workers.
