What is an impact surface?

An impact surface is defined as a surface that is subject to repeated force, which aligns with the concept of areas where lead-based paint or other hazardous materials may be disturbed or deteriorated due to consistent use or impact. These surfaces are particularly important to assess during lead risk evaluations because they are more likely to generate lead dust and chips through physical interactions, such as being struck or pressed against.

Identifying a surface as one that experiences repeated force helps risk assessors understand the potential for lead exposure, especially in environments where children may be present, as they are more susceptible to the harmful effects of lead. This understanding is crucial for implementing appropriate remediation strategies to mitigate lead exposure risks.

In contrast, surfaces that are untouched during use, subject to friction, or simply smooth and decorative may not pose the same level of risk for lead exposure as those categorized as impact surfaces, thus emphasizing the importance of focusing on areas with more active physical interactions.