What should you do before starting the lead abatement process?

Prior to initiating the lead abatement process, it is crucial to clean and remove as much as possible from the work area. This step is essential to minimize the risk of lead dust or debris spreading to uncontaminated areas and to ensure a safe, effective working environment. A clean workspace allows for better containment and processing of lead-containing materials, reducing the likelihood of exposure to both workers and residents.

By removing items from the area, you can also focus on the abatement activities without the distraction or hindrance of unnecessary objects, which could otherwise trap lead dust or present additional hazards. This foundational step is part of creating an effective lead safety plan, as it facilitates a thorough and organized workspace.

While covering hazards with poly, sealing windows and doors, and minimizing cleaning products may be important components of the lead abatement process, they are not as critical as ensuring the work area is cleared of extraneous items before commencing the actual lead removal work.