Lead in Paint Testing Lead-based paint remains a significant hazard in older buildings, posing health risks during refurbishment, demolition, or maintenance works. Historically, lead was used in paint for its durability, colour vibrancy, and fast-drying properties. Although now restricted, these coatings remain present in many buildings constructed before the 1990s, posing significant health risks during refurbishment, demolition, or maintenance works.
Accurate testing is essential to identify the presence and concentration of lead in painted surfaces and to prevent exposure through dust, flakes, or fumes. At Envirochem, we provide UKAS-accredited laboratory analysis and expert consultancy to help clients manage lead-related risks. Our services are designed to support safe, compliant project planning across housing, education, heritage, healthcare, and commercial property sectors.
What We Test For
We test for the presence and concentration of lead in:
- Paint flakes and coatings on wood, metal, plaster, and other substrates
- Dust samples from surrounding areas (to assess spread of contamination)
- Bulk materials (e.g. rubble, plaster, render) where historic paints may have leached
- Airborne particulate (during high-risk works, if required)
Testing can confirm compliance with exposure limits, inform risk assessments, and support safe removal or containment procedures.
Our Process
We begin with a consultation to understand your site, project goals, and refurbishment plans. If lead is suspected, we advise on representative sampling strategies and can attend site to collect samples with minimal disruption.
Samples are analysed at our in-house UKAS-accredited testing laboratory (No. 1227) using recognised methodologies such as ICP-OES. We provide a clear breakdown of results including concentration by weight (mg/kg or %) and relevant comparison thresholds, e.g. guidance levels under HSE or local authority protocols.
Where necessary, we also support air monitoring or clearance testing to confirm safety before reoccupation.
When Is Lead Testing Required?
Lead in paint testing may be required in the following situations:
- Refurbishment or demolition of buildings constructed before 1990
- Planned works involving sanding, burning, cutting or disturbing old paint
- Heritage site conservation or renovation
- Local authority housing projects or school maintenance
- Risk assessments under the Control of Lead at Work (CLAW) Regulations
- Compliance with planning, insurance, or health and safety obligations
If you're unsure whether testing is required, our consultants can review your project plans and advise on next steps.
Compliance and Risk Considerations
Failure to identify and properly manage lead-based paint can pose significant health risks, particularly to construction workers, pregnant individuals, and young children. When disturbed, lead-containing paint can release fine dust or fumes that are easily inhaled or ingested. Prolonged or repeated exposure may result in serious, and often irreversible, harm to the nervous system, kidneys, and reproductive organs.
Lead remains a controlled substance under several key UK regulations, including the Control of Lead at Work Regulations 2002 and the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015. These frameworks place legal duties on duty holders to assess, manage, and minimise exposure during any works that may disturb lead-based paint. Failure to comply not only risks enforcement action or prosecution, but can also lead to serious project delays and reputational damage. Early testing is a straightforward, cost-effective step that reduces liability, safeguards workers and the public, and keeps projects moving safely and legally.
Why Choose Envirochem?
At Envirochem, we combine the technical capability of a UKAS-accredited testing laboratory (No. 1227) with the practical insight of an environmental consultancy. Our consultants are experienced in identifying and managing legacy building hazards, and our testing reports are trusted by local authorities, contractors, and heritage professionals.
We deliver fast, reliable results and support you through every stage, from sample strategy and risk interpretation to removal recommendations or safe work protocols. If further action is needed, we can also advise on asbestos, anthrax, or other co-existing building hazards.
Speak to Our Team
If you need to carry out chemical water testing or would like to discuss your sampling requirements, get in touch with our expert team. We’ll help you determine the right testing strategy and provide data you can rely on to stay compliant.
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