What is typically considered the last deleading activity?

The final step in the deleading process is encapsulation, which involves sealing lead hazards with a protective coating or barrier. This method ensures that any remaining lead-based paint is rendered inaccessible, minimizing the risk of lead exposure. Encapsulation is crucial because it can effectively manage lead hazards in situations where complete removal of lead paint is not feasible or practical.

This approach allows for the safe use of a property while adhering to safety regulations. By encapsulating lead paint, the risk of lead dust generation is reduced, thereby contributing to a safer environment for occupants, especially children who are most vulnerable to lead poisoning.

While final inspection, painting, and dust sampling are important components of the overall process, they typically follow encapsulation. The final inspection confirms that all hazardous lead materials have been addressed properly, and painting may be done after encapsulation to enhance aesthetics and durability. Dust sampling is essential for verifying the effectiveness of the deleading activities, but it occurs after encapsulation to check for any residual lead dust. Thus, encapsulation is rightly recognized as the last critical activity in the deleading process.