As a risk assessor, what should be done for stairway steps with lead-based paint (LBP)?

When addressing stairway steps that have lead-based paint (LBP), the appropriate action is to utilize paint film stabilization. This method involves treating the painted surface with a protective layer while ensuring that the lead hazards are minimized. The goal is to keep the existing paint intact, thereby preventing the potential for exposure to lead dust or deteriorating paint chips, which can pose serious health risks, especially to young children and pregnant women.

Paint film stabilization focuses on maintaining the integrity of the leaded paint by applying a new, non-lead-based paint over the existing layers. This helps seal the lead paint beneath and reduces the chance of paint degradation which can release harmful lead particles into the environment. This approach is a best practice because it addresses the presence of lead without requiring extensive and costly measures like complete demolition or scrapping the original paint, which can be disruptive.

Furthermore, simply ignoring the condition or attempting to apply a new layer of paint without proper stabilization could lead to significant health risks associated with lead exposure. Hence, paint film stabilization is the safest and most effective method for managing stairway steps with lead-based paint.