According to the EPA, what is the acceptable lead dust level for floors?

The acceptable lead dust level for floors, as established by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), is 10 micrograms per square foot (µg/ft²). This standard is based on research that has demonstrated exposure to lead dust can cause significant health risks, particularly in children and pregnant women. The EPA's guidelines are intended to minimize the risk of lead exposure from dust that can settle on floors, which is a common pathway for lead contamination in homes and buildings, especially those constructed before 1978 when lead-based paints were commonly used.

Setting the acceptable lead dust level at 10 µg/ft² allows for a reasonable threshold to ensure safety without placing undue burden on property owners and managers. Regular monitoring and remediation of dust levels that exceed this standard are crucial steps in protecting public health and preventing lead poisoning, which can have severe and lasting consequences.