The primary responsibility of a lead inspector is to conduct testing to determine whether lead-based paint hazards exist in a house, dwelling unit, residential building, or housing development. Inspectors test surfaces that are finished with other coatings, such as stain, varnish, or wallpaper-coated surfaces, as well as painted components on the exterior and interior surfaces. Lead, dust, bare soil, and water may all be tested many inspectors. Inspectors must adhere to a strict inspection protocol set forth the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).
In general, a lead inspector is called upon to conduct lead-based paint testing in three situations. First, they must conduct an assessment to determine whether or not residential properties built before 1978 contain lead-based paint hazards. Internal and external surfaces are usually subjected to tests. Walls, floors, and doors are examples of components that may be tested. The analysis of windows and ceilings is also carried out. When a lead inspector visually inspects a surface that is intact or in fair condition, testing for lead dust is frequently performed on horizontal surfaces in adjacent areas.
An X-ray Fluorescence (XRF) analyzer is used lead inspectors to check for the presence of lead-based paint on a surface. The lead inspector must submit a report to the property owner or the agency that requested the evaluation after the test is completed. If the property fails the inspection and a lead–based paint hazard is discovered, the problem must be fixed within a specific time frame. To remove the hazard, very specific HUD-mandated procedures must usually be followed. Abatement is the process of removing or eliminating a lead-based paint hazard.
The identified lead-based paint hazard may be removed, encapsulated, or enclosed; in some cases, the surface may be sanded and repainted. Following the completion of the work a licensed lead abatement contractor, a clearance sampling is performed a lead inspector. To determine if the abatement process was completed in accordance with federal regulations, the lead inspector will generally take clearance samplings in locations of the work area specified in the lead-based paint regulations. This includes cleaning up the abatement work area properly.
After remodeling, repairing, or painting any housing that receives federal funding, HUD began requiring clearance testing in 1998. Beginning in April 2010, the United States Environmental Protection Agency (US-EPA) will require contractors to demonstrate that they followed prescribed regulations to properly clean certain impacted areas identified as lead-base paint hazards in any child-occupied facility or housing built before 1978. A lead inspector or other authorized person must conduct the clearance in both cases.
After performing remodeling or repair work, many property owners have their properties inspected. This is to ensure that the area has been thoroughly cleaned and that no lead-based paint hazards remain. Many rental property owners conduct inspections prior to leasing a unit to ensure that there are no lead-based paint hazards.
The requirements for becoming a licensed and certified lead inspector vary state. Lead inspectors are required to have a high school diploma or its equivalent. They must complete an accredited training program in order to gain the necessary knowledge and skills to work as a lead inspector.