Lead-based paint hazards focus of events

Spokane Lead Week, a series of events designed to raise awareness of lead-based paint hazards, will be held this week at the DoubleTree Hotel in downtown Spokane.

Most lead-based paint hazards are found in housing structures built in 1960 or before. Lead was banned as an additive to house paint in 1978. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, lead can cause various health concerns, from behavioral problems and learning disabilities, to seizures and death. Children 6 years old and under are most at risk.

Events include:

• A training session on Tuesday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. that will demonstrate how to work safely around lead-based paint in older homes.

• A roundtable conference on Wednesday that will feature national, state and local speakers.

• A two-hour lead-based paint awareness seminar also on Wednesday for landlords, property managers and maintenance supervisors.

Space is limited and registration is required. For more information or to register, go to http://capps.wsu.edu/conferences/leadbasedpaint/.