Specifications for scraping or blasting lead-based paint from structures should be written with worker safety and environmental issues in mind, so that qualified contractors who can adhere to a high level of quality and compliance are selected for the project. These specifications should
• Describe the extent of surface preparation and the degree of containment required and let the contractor propose how to accomplish this.
• Identify key health and safety and environmental regulations to ensure that the contractor is aware of these regulations and plans compliance strategies in the bid.
• Clearly state that the paint to be removed is lead based. The highway department should have had the paint tested prior to contract bid if there is any doubt whether the paint is lead based. The cost differential is too great to make the assumption or let a contract with the lead concentration factor as an unknown.
• Specify how the waste is to be treated, tested, handled, and disposed of.
• Identify the worker protection standards and requirements that the contractor’s health and safety plan must meet at a minimum.
