Note: This Instructional Module information comes from our Training Manual. The complete Training Manual can be ordered from our Program and comes with a video, transparency masters, module publications, and many other educational resources. 

Module Learning Objectives

• Recognize and reduce the potential risk of lead or asbestos contamination of the home during a remodeling project
• Identify potentially hazardous household and construction products that can affect air quality in the home during a remodeling project
• Implement safe practices and product choices when remodeling the home to minimize the effect on indoor air quality

Support Publications 

• Asbestos in Your Home, American Lung Association, U.S. CPSC, EPA, #3716C, January 1995. http://www.epa.gov/asbestos
• Carpet and Indoor Air Quality, EPA, October 1992. http://www.epa.gov/iaq/pubs/carpet.html
• Home Repairs and Renovations: What You Should Know About Lead-Based Paint, National Lead Information Center, October 1992. http://www.nsc.org/ehc/nlic/ledrep.htm 
• What You Should Know About Using Paint Strippers, U.S. CPSC, EPA 747-F-95-002, 1995. http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/pubs/423.html
• See Home IAQ Overview Module for Indoor Air Hazards Every Homeowner Should Know About... Booklet

Video (See "IAQ Video Sampler" included with the manual)

• Your House, Your Health - A Non-Toxic Building Guide, The Healthy House Institute, 1992, 7-minute segment of a longer film

Notes to the Program Leader:

The format provides a series of overhead transparency masters and a script to accompany each visual. The script is in recitation form. This is to encourage you to present information in a conversational style and to avoid reading an exact script during the program presentation.

The presentation begins with an introduction and a "Teaser Test" to get participants interested in the topic. The "Teaser Test" is used again (with answers) as the conclusion.

A shorter version of this presentation can be given by eliminating the "Teaser Test" and using only the following overheads: 1, 3, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 13, 15, 17, 18, 21, and 23. A shorter version could also be presented dealing only with the topics of lead and asbestos by using overheads 1 through 11. Alternatively, a shorter version could be presented that focused on VOCs by using the title overhead (#1) and overheads 13 through 23. In both cases, the introduction and conclusion/summary would need to be adapted.

Script for Transparency #1

HIDDEN HAZARDS FOR THE HOME REMODELER

If you are remodeling your home, it is an exciting time as you look forward to the finished product: an attractive home that better meets your needs. 

Remodeling can also be frustrating as you deal with noise, dust and debris, changes in routine, and strangers in your home. 

Don't let this become a dangerous time for you and other members of your household. Old and new building materials, construction practices, and various chemicals used in remodeling can threaten the air quality in your home, both during the remodeling process and afterwards. 

Throughout this presentation, we will take a closer look at some of these potential hazards: 

• Lead and asbestos that may already be in your home 
• Products used to clean, finish, preserve, decorate, or refurbish building materials, which may contain toxic chemicals that evaporate into the air 
• Pressed wood products and new carpet that may release toxic chemicals 

Script for Transparency #2

Note to the Program Leader: Use the following "Teaser Test" to generate interest on the topic and focus the thinking of the participants. Ask participants to jot down their answers so that everyone can review the "Teaser Test" at the end of the program. You may wish to provide participants with a copy of the "Teaser Test" or use from an overhead. Also, you may want to incorporate the "Teaser Test" into your evaluation as a measure of learning. 

"TEASER TEST" 

1. Name one place you might find asbestos in your home. 
2. TRUE or FALSE: Lead-based paint is found only in older homes, that is, homes built before 1950.
3. What is a VOC? 
4. TRUE or FALSE: Formaldehyde is commonly found in house paint. 
5. TRUE or FALSE: Shampooing new carpet is a recommended practice to control chemical odors. 

Note the to Program Leader: Introduce the topic of lead and asbestos by using the script below before putting up transparency #3. Lead and asbestos hazards are primarily concerned with the removal, repair, or alteration of existing building materials and features.

Lead and asbestos are two "hot" environmental issues today -- why? 

1. Both had been commonly used in building materials until recent years, so everyone's potential exposure is high
2. We continue to learn more about the potential health threats, especially to children 
3. Attempting to remove these materials from a building can actually increase the danger and risk of exposure

Script for Transparency #3

Note to the Program Leader: Use transparency #3 at this point. 

LEAD AND ASBESTOS

Lead and asbestos have some similarities: 

• Commonly used in home building until the late 1970s; present in a large percentage of houses 
• Highly regulated, both in removal from existing buildings and in new construction 
• Lead- and asbestos-containing materials generally cannot be recognized by sight and identification by special testing is needed 
• Lead- (primarily lead-based paint) and asbestos-containing materials, if in good condition and left undisturbed, may pose little health threat 
• Deterioration of lead- or asbestos-containing materials increases the likelihood that residents of the home will be exposed to the health hazard 
• Disturbing lead- or asbestos-containing materials, such as during renovation, increases the likelihood of dangerous exposure 
• It is often better to leave the lead- or asbestos-containing materials in place if they are in good condition, but they may need to be covered or sealed to reduce exposure 
• Removal of lead- or asbestos-containing materials is hazardous and generally it is best left to a trained professional; professional removal may be expensive 

Script for Transparency #4

ASBESTOS

• Mineral fiber 
• Added to products to provide extra strength, increase thermal protection (heat insulation), and to provide texture 

• Asbestos fibers break down into very fine fibers that are easily inhaled into the lungs 
• Fibers tend to accumulate in the lungs 
• Increased risk of cancer and other related lung diseases 

Script for Transparency #5

WHERE IS ASBESTOS FOUND?

Asbestos can be found in: 

• Steam pipes, boilers, and furnace ducts for thermal insulation 
• Resilient floor tiles and sheet flooring (vinyl asbestos) 
• Cement sheets, millboard, and other materials insulating around furnaces, fireplaces, and woodstoves 
• Soundproofing and decorative materials sprayed on walls and ceilings 
• Textured paints and patching and joint compounds 
• Roofing and siding shingles (asbestos cement) 
• Artificial ashes and embers 
• Consumer products needing insulation (i.e., ironing board covers and stove top pads) 

Script for Transparency #6

ASBESTOS...WHAT TO DO? 

What do you do if you suspect you have asbestos-containing materials? If the material is in good condition: leave it alone! 

Before beginning any remodeling work, have a laboratory test done to confirm or deny the presence of asbestos in suspicious materials. 

If materials are damaged or disintegrating: 

• Seal or encapsulate - use a sealant to bind materials together, or coat the material so fibers cannot be released 
• Cover or enclose - cover the asbestos-containing materials so fibers cannot be released 

If removal of asbestos-containing materials is necessary, using a trained and certified professional is recommended. Contact your local Cooperative Extension Office, a builder/contractor, or look under "Environmental Services" in your telephone directory.

Script for Transparency #7

LEAD 

Lead can get into the home environment from: lead-based paint, dust contaminated with lead-based paint, soils contaminated with lead from paint, engines burning leaded gas, industrial uses of lead, water, lead-glazed ceramic pottery, lead solder on some food cans, and food products grown in lead-contaminated soils. 

• Lead-based paint is a primary concern to remodelers 
• Lead-based paint was used until the late 1970s, and was especially common before the 1950s
• Greatest threat is the dust from lead-based paint as it wears and disintegrates – inhalation or ingestion dangers 
• Children (especially under age 6) are particularly at risk; their hand-to-mouth behavior increases ingestion of lead dust and their smaller size leads to a greater effect of lead on their developing bodies (especially mental development) 

Note to the Program Leader: For more information about lead, see the "Lead in the Home" module.

Script for Transparency #8

LEAD

There is no completely safe "Do-It-Yourself" method to remove lead paint. 

Script for Transparency #9

WHAT CAN YOU DO ABOUT LEAD-BASED PAINT?

What can you do about lead-based paint when remodeling? 

• Test the paint to determine if it is lead-based 
• Replace the painted item, especially if it can be easily removed without creating lead dust; for example, install a new door or molding 
• Cover over the lead-based paint, such as with new wall board, plaster, or paneling 
• If it is necessary to strip the lead-based paint (for example, to maintain the historic integrity of molding), try to remove the item from the home for stripping 

Script for Transparency #10

STRIPPING LEAD-BASED PAINT

In the process of stripping lead-based paint, most agree how NOT to do it, few agree how TO do it.

Definitely do not: 

• Burn off paint with a torch or high temperature heat gun - releases toxic fumes 
• Power sand or dry scrape the paint - releases large amounts of dust 
• Chemically strip with methylene chloride - leaves a lead residue (and stripper is toxic) 
• Grit blast - leaves a dust residue 

• Use a heat gun to soften the paint and minimize dust, then scrape 
• Use a chemical stripper to soften, then scrape 

Script for Transparency #11

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS FOR LEAD AND ASBESTOS

This overhead outlines some safety precautions for dealing with lead- and asbestos-containing materials. 

Do not attempt to remove lead- or asbestos-containing materials without proper training. 

Here are some general guidelines for how a trained professional works with lead- or asbestos-containing materials: 

1. Seal off the room or area; do not let children, pets, or other household members into the area; post a warning sign 
2. Shut down heating or cooling systems to the area to avoid distribution of fumes, fibers, or dust
3. Do not track dust or fibers out of work area; use disposable plastic floor and shoe coverings 
4. Wear an approved respirator, disposable protective coverup, and gloves 
5. Wet asbestos-containing materials with a solution of water and detergent (about one teaspoon detergent to one quart water) with a hand sprayer; same technique will minimize dust when removing loose or flaking lead-based paint 
6. Avoid handling, breaking, or cutting asbestos-containing materials or lead-based paint debris whenever possible 
7. Encase all lead- or asbestos-contaminated debris in two layers of plastic for disposal; follow local requirements for proper disposal 
8. No eating or drinking in the work area 
9. Thoroughly wet clean the removal area; vacuum using a special cleaner with a high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter and wet clean again 

Script for Transparency #12

DEMOLITION HAZARDS

Remodeling often requires demolition or alteration of the home's structure. To emphasize again: if your home was built before about 1980, you need to be aware of the potential for a lead or asbestos hazard.

Demolition work can also present another environmental hazard -- biological contaminants. Previous dampness in the home can lead to molds and fungus that are hidden in the walls. You may also find dead animals and insects or their feces. Therefore, use a dust mask during demolition projects. Some allergic individuals should avoid this type of work.

Note to the Program Leader: Use this script below to make a transition from discussing lead and asbestos (hazards primarily related to the removal of old building materials) to VOCs and chemicals used in remodeling activities.

A variety of chemicals may be used in the remodeling process to clean surfaces, strip off old finishes, as adhesives, or to paint, varnish, or finish new materials. Chemicals are also used in the manufacture of building materials and furnishings for newly remodeled spaces.

Script for Transparency #13

VOLATILE ORGANIC COMPOUNDS (VOCS)

Many chemicals used in remodeling activities contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs). VOCs include organic solvents that quickly evaporate into the air. VOCs can be toxic and detrimental to the environment. Many products containing VOCs may be flammable or harmful, especially if used improperly.

Products containing VOCs are often found in aerosol or spray form. This, unfortunately, increases the amount of pollution that goes into the air.

Script for Transparency #14

VOC LABEL TERMS 

Examples of product label terms that identify VOCs include: 

• Chlorinated solvents 
• Formaldehyde 
• Methylene chloride 
• Mineral spirits 
• Petroleum distillates 
• Toluene 
• Trichloroethane 
• Trichloroethylene 
• Xylene 

Script for Transparency #15

PRODUCTS WITH VOCS AND REMODELING

Examples of products containing VOCs that might be used in remodeling include: 

• Wood or furniture strippers 
• Turpentine 
• Paints and paint thinners 
• Wood finishes, such as varnish, shellac, stain, and oil 
• Glues and adhesives 

Script for Transparency #16

HEALTH CONCERNS OF VOCS

VOCs are toxic products under certain conditions! Short-term exposure can cause: 

• Itchy, burning, or teary eyes 
• Skin irritation 
• Nose, throat, or lung irritation 
• Nausea or headache 
• Dizziness or lightheadedness 
• Allergic reaction 

Script for Transparency #17

VOCS - REDUCING RISK

During your remodeling project, reduce exposure to VOCS by: 

• Choosing products with reduced levels of VOCs, such as water-based or latex paints 
• Choosing low-VOC emitting products, where available 
• Following all safety precautions on the label for using VOC or solvent-based products

Script for Transparency #18

VOCS - SAFETY PRECAUTIONS DURING USE

When possible, use VOC products outdoors where compounds are more widely dispersed. Provide plenty of ventilation and fresh air if VOC products must be used indoors. If remodeling does require indoor use of VOC products, schedule activities for a time when the weather is mild so doors and windows can be opened for ventilation. 

When using VOC products, take regular breaks for fresh air and be alert for possible reactions to the chemicals. Use protective gloves and glasses when using VOC products. A respirator is recommended for prolonged use of VOC products, especially when working indoors. Keep VOC product containers closed when in use to minimize evaporation. 

Keep children and pets away from VOC products. Also, pregnant women and those who are chronically ill should avoid VOC products. 

Script for Transparency #19

VOCS - PRODUCT SAFETY

Treat VOC- or solvent-based products with caution: 

• Purchase only the needed amount of the VOC product so there is none leftover to store (most containers are not completely vapor-proof) 
• Carefully read labels of VOC products and follow use and safety precautions (keep VOC product in its original container so it is always properly labeled) 
• Dispose of leftover or used VOC products according to guidelines for potentially hazardous waste -- call a community waste authority for assistance (treat empty VOC containers, applicators, and contaminated clothes in the same manner as the leftover product)

Script for Transparency #20

FORMALDEHYDE

Formaldehyde is a particular VOC product of concern to remodelers. It is often used as a resin or adhesive in the production of manufactured wood products. Pressed or manufactured wood products are often used in remodeling, including subflooring, sheathing, shelving, cabinetry, and furniture. Formaldehyde will off-gas (release the chemical into the air) when the product is new, especially in warm, humid conditions.

Note to the Program Leader: For more information about formaldehyde, see the "Formaldehyde in the Home" module.

Script for Transparency #21

FORMALDEHYDE - REDUCING EXPOSURE

In trying to reduce exposure to formaldehyde, choose pressed wood products rated for low formaldehyde emissions. For example, pressed wood products intended for exterior use tend to off-gas less formaldehyde than interior grade products. Seal all surfaces of pressed wood products with a low-VOC varnish or paint to minimize the off-gassing of formaldehyde. Increase ventilation of the home after new, pressed wood products are installed.

Script for Transparency #22

NEW CARPET AND INDOOR AIR QUALITY

Remodeling a home often includes installation of new carpet. The effect of new carpet on indoor air quality has been controversial in recent years. Some studies have shown that carpet, including the pad or cushion and adhesives used in installation, can off-gas a variety of VOCs. Some people are particularly sensitive to these VOCs and their odor(s).

Follow the Carpet and Rug Institute (CRI) guidelines in the next overhead for new carpet selection and installation to minimize indoor air quality concerns.

Script for Transparency #23

CARPET AND RUG INSTITUTE GUIDELINES

• Choose carpeting certified to have low-VOC emissions 
• Choose low-VOC emitting pads, and if necessary, adhesives 
• Arrange for the carpet retailer or installer to roll out the carpet and pad or cushion in a well-ventilated space 24 to 48 hours before installation 
• Plan carpet installation for mild weather so doors and windows can be left open during the installation period 
• Increase the amount of ventilation in the home the first few days after the carpet is installed. Sensitive individuals may want to stay away from the home for the first 48 to 72 hours after the carpet is installed 

Note to the Program Leader: Use the "Teaser Test" (transparency #2) to conclude the program. Ask participants to give answers to each question. Encourage them to identify which facts or concepts were new to them. You may also wish to emphasize other points made during the presentation, but not included on the "Teaser Test." Ask questions about how they will use the information learned at the presentation.

Answers to Teaser Test:
1. See transparency #5 for a list
2. See transparency #3, 7 (Answer is False)
3. See transparency #13, 14, 15 for definition and examples
4. See transparency #20 (Answer is False)
5. See transparency #23 (Answer is False)
 
 
 

Prepared by:
Kathleen Parrott, Ph.D.
Associate Professor/Housing Extension Specialist
Virginia Tech
October 1996, Revised October 1999