Asbestos and Lead
Definition: Asbestos is a natural mineral strong enough to resist high temperatures, chemical attack and wear. Regular exposure to asbestos involves health risks and while this concern has led to a dramatic decline in asbestos use since the early 1980s, there are still some properties in Nova Scotia that contain asbestos.
Lead is a heavy metal and was added to paint before the 1960's in order to speed drying, increase durability, retain a fresh appearance, and resist moisture that causes corrosion. Unfortunately, lead is a neurotoxin. Even in very small amounts, lead can harm the developing brain and nervous system of fetuses and young children, interfere with hemoglobin production and inhibit the processes essential to metabolizing vitamin d and calcium. Chronic, or long-term lead exposure, can lead to high blood pressure and peripheral vascular disease.
If you discover that you may have asbestos or lead on your property, DO:
But DO NOT: