Nearly 75% of New Haven’s housing stock was built prior to 1980 using methods and materials that we now know are harmful to human health. Despite a 1978 federal ban on the use of lead in consumer products, it continues to persist in old paints, glazes, varnishes, pipes, and soils. As such, lead poisoning remains a significant and persistent public health issue, particularly in New Haven where childhood lead poisoning rates are among the highest in the state.

The first program in this series explored public health implications for leaded materials in older homes. Perspectives from the New Haven Health Department, the Regional Water Authority, and Yale New Haven Health identified several important ways that New Haven is working to reduce the prevalence of lead in our neighborhoods.

 For this second session, we will focus on the challenge of conducting necessary lead abatement work while preserving important architectural features. Attendees will learn about abatement techniques that are compatible with the Secretary of the Interior's Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties and strategies for working “lead safe” in their homes.

 Panelists:

• Clare Olesen, Licensed Environmental Professional (retired)

• Leland Torrence, Leland Torrence Enterprises, LLC.

At the conclusion of both sessions, New Haven Health Department staff will be available to assist with questions as well as applications for lead abatement programs.

This program is presented in partnership with the New Haven Health Department and New Haven Free Public Library.