Hazardous substances (lead & asbestos)

Lead and asbestos were used extensively in decorative coatings and building materials respectively, and although much of this material has been removed over the years, a large amount of lead paint and asbestos is still present in buildings today. Both can be highly dangerous if you come in to contact with them when carrying out a decoration project.

Lead

Lead-based pigments were once used in decorative paints, applied in and around homes and other buildings. These pigments have not been used for many decades in ICI Paints products, but old lead painted surfaces can still be found.

ICI Paints want to ensure that the public and professional users of our products are aware of the potential risk in homes, commercial properties and public buildings that are associated with exposure to old painted surfaces.

Old painted surfaces are of particular concern when:

• they are allowed to deteriorate and are flaking, cracking or chipping.
• they rub and chip or form dust.
• are accessible to children, who might chew or suck the painted surface.

If you think you are dealing with an old lead painted surface, download the BCF guide on Old Lead Painted Surfaces.

Asbestos

The building and construction industry is well aware of the presence and potential danger of asbestos in old buildings, but this is just as important for the painting and decorating trade. Although ICI Paints products do not contain asbestos, there is still a chance that specifiers, builders and professional decorators may come into contact with the material.

You can download a copy of the BCF information paper on Asbestos and Decorative Coatings, which details the action one should take if you uncover asbestos. Professional painters and builders should also refer to appropriate legislation and HSE publications on asbestos including

• Control of Asbestos at Work Regulations 1999 (or future amendments).
• The Stationery Office (see Yellow Pages)
• Working with asbestos in buildings (IND(G)289 or future versions) HSE Books (Tel: 01787 881165)
• Selection of suitable respiratory equipment for work with asbestos (IND(G)288 or future versions) HSE Books
• Asbestos dust kills: keep your mask on (IND(G)255 rev.1, or future versions)