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REMOVAL AND CONTAINMENT OF LEAD-BASED PAINT VIA NEEDLE SCALERS
Citation:
Kranz, P. B. AND J. E. Stadelmaier. REMOVAL AND CONTAINMENT OF LEAD-BASED PAINT VIA NEEDLE SCALERS. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, D.C., EPA/600/R-94/114 (NTIS 94-193216), 1994.
Impact/Purpose:
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Description:
This report describes a comparative technical and economic evaluation of using a dustless needlegun system versus a conventional abrasive grit blasting system in the removal of lead-based paint from steel structures. The objective of the study was to comparatively analyze the operational and Logistical aspects of using dustless needleguns for lead-based paint removaL as they relate to hazardous waste generation, worker health and safety and associated economic factors. The dustless needle gun system demonstrated its ability to produce a substantial reduction (97.5%) in the generation of hazardous waste when compared to conventional abrasive blasting. Also demonstrated was the ability to substantially reduce (up to 99%) the airborne concentrations of respirable dusts and lead-containing particulates generated during paint removal operations. Labor costs were decidedly higher (approximately 300%) for the dustless needlegun system primarily due to slower production rates which would necessitate more operating personnel. These costs are substantially mitigated by the reduction of costs associated with expendable abrasive blast material and hazardous waste disposal. Conventional abrasive blasting proved to be decidedly superior in the quality of surface preparation, based upon prescribed contract specifications. The dustless needlegun system is shown to be economically competitive with conventional abrasive blasting when considering the reduced requirements for containment, hazardous waste disposal and worker protection. This report was submitted in partial fulfillment of contract number CR-816762 by the Erie County Department of Environment and Planning, under the sponsorship the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. This report covers the period from July 1992 through August 1993. Field and analytical work was completed as of March 1993.