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![Text Box: Action Levels for Lead
Lead in paint. Differing methods report results in differing units. Lead is considered a potential hazard if above the following levels, but can be a hazard at lower levels if improperly handled. Below are the current action levels identified by HUD[62] and EPA (40 CFR Part 745):
Lab analysis of samples:
5,000 milligram per kilogram (mg/kg) or 5,000 parts per million (ppm)
0.5% lead by weight.
X-ray fluorescence:
1 milligram per square centimeter (mg/cm2)
Lead in dust:
Floors, 40 micrograms per cubic foot (mg/ft2)
Window sills, 250 mg/ft2
Window troughs, 400 mg/ft2 (clearance only)
Lead in soil:
High-contact bare play areas: 400 ppm
Other yard areas: 1,200 ppm](5b_Lead_action_levels_files/image001.gif)