Common restoration tasks like sanding, cutting, and demolishing can disrupt lead-based paint, releasing dangerous lead dust and chips that can be damaging to both adults and children.

​

The EPA published a regulation on April 22, 2008, requiring the adoption of lead-safe practices and other measures to avoid lead poisoning. According to the law, effective in April 2010, contractors must be certified and adhere to particular work standards to minimize lead contamination while executing remodeling, repair, and painting projects that disturb lead-based paint in residences, child care facilities, and schools established before 1978. HUD and EPA advise using lead-safe work practices while executing remodeling, repair, and painting operations that disturb lead-based paint in buildings built before 1978, including houses, child care centers, and schools.