Lead Paint in Older Buildings on University Campuses: Testing and Remediation

Pre-1970, many older buildings on university campuses used lead paint for their walls. The question then arises: do universities test for lead before stripping drywall? The answer, to a large extent, depends on state laws and not federal regulations. In California, for example, schools like Cal State Monterey Bay, developed on the now defunct Fort Ord military base, faced the challenge of dealing with lead-based paint and asbestos in a majority of their buildings. Handling such environments adheres to stringent rules, considering both safety and legal liability.

Let's break down the testing and remediation process:

State vs. Federal Regulations

When it comes to lead testing in buildings, state regulations often take precedence over federal ones. For instance, in California, California shorted many of its schools to be tested for lead. This does not necessarily mean that every school in the state has undergone the testing. The process is slow and comprehensive, involving multiple stages of inspection and remediation. The rules governing the handling of these environments are strict to ensure the safety of students and staff.

Liability Considerations

The potential for legal ramifications if lead paint is not properly tested and removed is a significant factor. Universities and building owners who do not follow proper procedures run the risk of facing lawsuits. Given these risks, it is reasonable to assume that most universities and institutions would prioritize lead testing and removal to mitigate these legal and liability issues. However, the effort and cost of lead remediation can be substantial, leading some to overlook this critical step.

Newer Paint Technologies

Although lead-free latex paints have been available since the 1960s, they may not have been as widely used in commercial applications back then. These paints not only dry faster but also allow for warm water cleanup, making them more user-friendly. This technology has played a vital role in reducing the need for lead-based paints in new constructions and renovations.

For remediation, sealing up lead paint can be an effective approach. By ensuring the foundation of the paint is secure and not flaking, and then painting over it with non-lead-based paints, the risk of lead exposure can be significantly reduced. This method is less invasive than completely stripping the walls, making it a more practical solution in many cases.

The Risk to Non-Exposure Groups

For individuals on university campuses, the risk of ingesting lead or suffering health consequences from not being exposed to it is generally minimal, especially outside of childcare areas. Most people on these campuses are not likely to chew on window sills or engage in other activities that could lead to lead exposure. This low risk further underscores the need to prioritize testing and remediation for groups that are more likely to be affected, such as young children.

Attitude and Science Denial

The topic of lead paint also reflects a broader issue of science denial and varying attitudes towards public health measures. Similar to the reactions to the COVID-19 pandemic, there are differing views on the importance of lead remediation. For a long time, there was a rationale that lead was only important if young children were involved. Building owners had the option to opt out in these situations. However, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), under previous administrations, was highly vigilant about punishing violators. It is less notable today, reflecting a shift in regulatory focus.