Lead Testing and Assessment
Know What Is Present Before Work Begins
Lead may be present in older paints, coatings and other building materials. When these materials are sanded, cut, demolished or otherwise disturbed, lead-containing dust or fumes may be released.
According to Health Canada, homes built before 1960 probably contain lead-based paint. Buildings constructed between 1960 and 1990 may also contain lead in exterior paint and smaller amounts in some interior coatings. The age of a building can indicate potential risk, but testing is the only reliable way to determine whether lead is present.
Balco Environmental assesses the project area and collects representative samples of suspect paint, coatings or other materials based on the proposed scope of work. Samples are submitted to an accredited third-party laboratory for analysis.
You receive a clear written report identifying the materials tested, the laboratory results and any recommended precautions or next steps. This information helps property owners, contractors and project managers plan renovation, restoration or demolition work safely.
WHEN LEAD TESTING IS RECOMMENDED
Lead testing should be considered:
• Before renovation, restoration or demolition in an older building
• Before sanding, cutting, drilling or removing painted or coated materials
• When paint is damaged, peeling, chipping or flaking
• When the age or composition of building materials is unknown
• When previous reports identify suspect lead-containing materials
• When testing is required for project planning or worker-safety measures
Testing before materials are disturbed provides the information needed to plan the work safely and select appropriate controls.
YOUR LEAD TESTING RESULTS
Clear Information for Safer Project Planning
After sampling is complete, the collected materials are submitted to an accredited third-party laboratory for analysis. The results identify whether lead is present and, where applicable, its measured concentration.
You will receive a clear written report that includes:
• The materials and locations sampled
• Laboratory analysis results
• Sample identification and supporting photographs
• An explanation of the findings
• Recommended precautions or next steps
These results provide property owners, contractors and project managers with the information needed to plan renovation, restoration or demolition work safely.
Know what is present before materials are disturbed.