What does deteriorating or disturbed lead-based paint create?

Deteriorating or disturbed lead-based paint primarily generates lead dust. When lead-based paint deteriorates due to age, damage, or improper maintenance, tiny particles of lead can break off from the surface. This leads to the creation of fine dust that can settle in surrounding areas. Lead dust is a serious health hazard, especially to children, as it can be easily inhaled or ingested.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately represent the byproducts of deteriorating lead paint. Lead fumes, for example, are not produced by paint but can result from processes like welding or burning lead. Lead sheets refer to a solid form of lead material, which is unrelated to paint deterioration, while lead particles are too vague; the term does not specifically capture the hazardous nature of lead dust created during paint degradation. Therefore, the focus on lead dust in this context highlights the significant risk associated with lead-based paint in deteriorating conditions.