Lead Testing Services

Huntington Beach, California, September 4, 2026

Lead-based paint was banned for residential use in 1978, yet many older homes still contain it, posing exposure risks to occupants and those involved in renovation or remodeling work. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that approximately 34 million U.S. homes contain lead-based paint. In California alone, nearly 8 million homes that were built before 1978 may still have these materials.

Lead-based paint remains a leading source of exposure and poisoning. As it deteriorates, is disturbed, or is improperly removed through dry scraping, sanding, or open-flame burning, it can release contaminated dust. This dust can then be inhaled or ingested, creating serious health risks.

For these reasons, potential lead exposure must be carefully considered during renovation and remodeling projects. The EPA requires that renovation, repair, and painting (RRP) activities disturbing lead-based paint in pre-1978 homes, childcare facilities, and preschools be performed by certified lead-safe contractors. This rule generally does not apply to homeowners working on their own residences.

“Lead is toxic to everyone, especially young children,” said Michael Chapman, Laboratory Manager at LA Testing’s Huntington Beach facility. “At LA Testing, we operate laboratories across California offering material, environmental, and industrial hygiene testing services to help protect families and workers. We also provide sampling supplies, test kits, air monitoring instruments, building inspection tools, and personal protective equipment to identify and mitigate exposure to lead and other hazards.”

LA Testing recently sponsored an educational video about lead exposure risks during renovation and remodeling projects: https://youtu.be/vdRs4mq8M58 

For more information about lead or indoor environmental quality (IEQ) testing resources, visit www.LATesting.com, email info@LATesting.com, or call (800) 755-1794. To access IEQ test kits, visit www.EMSLTestKits.com.

 

LA Testing is California’s leading laboratory for environmental, indoor air quality and material testing for mercury, asbestos, mold, bacteria, lead, VOCs, formaldehyde, soot, char, ash and smoke damage, particulates, and other chemicals. In addition, LA Testing offers a full range of air sampling and investigative equipment to professionals and the general public. LA Testing maintains an extensive list of accreditations including: AIHA LAP LLC., AIHA ELLAP, AIHA EMLAP and AIHA IHLAP, CDC Elite, NVLAP, State of California, State of Hawaii Department of Health, and other states. LA Testing, along with the EMSL Analytical, Inc. network, has multiple laboratories throughout California including South Pasadena, Huntington Beach, San Leandro, and San Diego.