QUESTION: 'Our House' website advises to vacuum and wet mop after removal of lead paint and I am concerned that vacuuming may lead to further contamination. - 28 Sep 2007 Queensland, Australia

Hi there,

I have been investigating lead paint recently- as I am concerned that our house could have been painted with lead paint.

In my research quest - I noticed that the 'Our House' contains dangerous facts about removal of lead paint. I have inserted the quote below:

"4 Reduce possible contamination by covering the carpets and soft furnishings with plastic sheeting. Vacuum and wet mop afterwards."

I am concerned that vacuuming after removal of lead paint may lead to further contamination - especially if lead product would enter the vacuum.

I feel that this casual information is too general and may lead to harmful effects of residence.

As a LEAD awareness group- could you please contact Our House and inform them of their dangerous tip.

thanks

Liz Clout

ANSWER: 28 Sep 2007

Dear Liz,

I have forwarded your email to Mr Jason Bawden-Smith from JBS Environmental Services and Technologies on 'Our House' website (without name or personal details) and recommended that he removes the word vacuum from advice number 4 and replace it with HEPA Vacuum. Thanks for your concern and for a very good point.

Regards, Iman Hegazi MBBS, MD. Forensic Medicine and Toxicology. Volunteer

The statement should be HEPA Vacuum and wet mop afterwards.