What year was the manufacture of lead paint for residential use banned by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission?

The manufacture of lead paint for residential use was banned by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission in 1978. This significant regulation came about due to the well-documented health risks associated with lead exposure, particularly in children, as lead can cause severe developmental issues and other health problems.

By implementing this ban, the CPSC aimed to reduce the incidence of lead poisoning in homes, especially given that lead paint was commonly used in residential properties prior to this decision. The action taken in 1978 reflects a growing awareness during that era of the dangers of toxic substances in household products and the move toward more stringent safety standards for consumer health.

Understanding this timeline is crucial for home inspectors as it highlights the potential risks present in older homes that may still contain lead-based paint, and the importance of assessing these risks during inspections.