2014
Fifth edition
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About this booklet
Paint containing lead was used in many Australian homes prior to 1970, but those built more recently may also present a risk to your health.
Exposure to lead is a health hazard. Even small amounts of dust or chips of paint containing lead, generated during minor home repairs, can be a health risk.
Anyone painting a house or doing maintenance that could disturb paint containing lead should avoid exposing themselves and their families, neighbours and pets to its hazards.
This booklet aims to provide basic information for do-it-yourself renovators on the risks associated with paint containing lead and on practical steps to keep those risks as low as possible.
Ideally, homes with paint containing lead should be assessed and remediated by trained professionals.
The advice in this booklet is based on the most recent research available. We recommend that you follow this advice to minimise the risks of exposure to lead in paint. We cannot guarantee that it will eliminate all risks as circumstances vary depending on the history of the house, its condition, the area to be painted and other factors.