Executive Summary of EPA747-R-97-002 | US EPA (2024)

March 1997
EPA 747-R-97-002
Laboratory Study of
Lead-Cleaning Efficacy
Executive Summary

The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has recommended the use of trisodium phosphate (TSP) detergent to clean lead-contaminated dust from surfaces, both after residential lead hazard control work to achieve post-abatement clearance standards and in general. This recommendation has often been assumed to apply to the general cleaning of lead-contaminated dust during ongoing exposure reduction activities. Because of the negative impact of phosphate detergents on the ecology of aquatic ecosystems, questions have arisen as to the scientific basis of recommending TSP and about the effectiveness of other cleaners. The objective of this laboratory study was to compare the cleaning efficacy of many commercially available cleaners that could be used to remove lead-contaminated dust from residential surfaces.

Thirty-four cleaners were tested in this study: 32 commercially available cleaning agents, TSP, and tap water of average hardness. Most brands were general all-purpose cleaners, hand or machine dishwashing products, laundry detergents, and bathroom, floor, and glass cleaners, while some brands were lead specific cleaners. The cleaning agents were selected to represent the range of commercial cleaning products that would reasonably be available to a consumer. Most of the cleaning agents were purchased at a full line grocery store. Although high purity TSP was used in this study, TSP for cleaning walls and lead abatement activities is available at home/builders supply stores. Two of the cleaners were purchased from a professional janitorial supply house, principally to have all-purpose cleaners with "high" phosphate content.

The cleaning agents were selected in an attempt to span a wide range of (1) phosphate content, (2) pH, and (3) active ingredients. It was found that most cleaning agents available to household consumers are (1) low or zero phosphate content, (2) high pH (basic), and (3) contain various active ingredients, often more that one surface active chemical. The cleaning agent formulations are nearly always considered proprietary, and the information on the cleaning agent label varies in content, particularly for the surface active ingredients that enhance the cleaning performance. In some cases, the phosphate content varies according to the geographical region in which the product is to be sold.

The tests were conducted using five types of surfaces selected to represent those commonly found in residential settings: vinyl tile, latex paint on drywall, enamel paint on birch, lacquer (Fabulon) on oak, and latex paint on birch. In addition to varying the types of surfaces tested, two types of leaded soil were used. One soil type contained vegetable oil (oily soil); the other contained no vegetable oil (dry soil). Each lead-containing soil mixture was mixed in a solvent, wiped on a test surface in a standardized manner, and allowed to dry before the surfaces were cleaned.

Each of the 34 cleaning agents was tested on all combinations of surfaces and soil types using the test procedures. First, the cleaner was mixed with water according to the manufacturer's instructions and the mixture's surface tension was measured, then the sponge and the cleaner solution were used to clean lead from the prepared surfaces. Baby wipes were used to sample the cleaned surfaced in order to measure the lead left behind after the cleaning process with the cleaner solution and sponge. This test procedure was repeated three times.

Lower surface tension cleaners were associated with better cleaning; however, differences among cleaning agents were small. Because all tested cleaning agents have lower surface tension than tap water alone, household cleaning using one of these cleaning agents is likely to remove more leaded soil and dust than does water alone. Phosphate content was not linked to cleaning efficacy. In particular, several of the lower phosphate cleaners had overall cleaning efficacy similar to or better than TSP. Differences in cleaning efficacy also depended on which laboratory technician performed a test, suggesting that the physical effort put into cleaning may be more important than the choice of cleaner.

Based on the primary conclusions of this study, EPA recommends that either a general all-purpose cleaner or a cleaner made specifically for lead should be used for both general cleaning and for post-intervention cleaning. Household cleaning using one of these cleaning agents is likely to remove more leaded soil and dust than does water alone. Finally, the study indicates that the effort put into the cleaning may be more important than the choice of cleaner.

The extent to which these conclusions, based on laboratory investigation, apply to homes in real-life situations is a matter of judgment. For example, the lead-containing soil material used in this study was mixed in a solvent, wiped on the test surfaces, and allowed to dry before cleaning. This application method might have resulted in soil lead that is more closely bound to a surface than loose soil or settled dust in a home. At the same time, the soil applied to the test surfaces was not ground in, as might occur as a result of foot traffic in a home. Regardless of the potential differences between experimental conditions and real-life settings, the results of this comparative study do not support the recommended use of TSP for the reduction of lead dust exposure.

Executive Summary of EPA747-R-97-002 | US EPA (2024)

FAQs

Executive Summary of EPA747-R-97-002 | US EPA? ›

The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has recommended the use of trisodium phosphate

trisodium phosphate
Trisodium phosphate (TSP) is the inorganic compound with the chemical formula Na 3PO 4. It is a white, granular or crystalline solid, highly soluble in water, producing an alkaline solution. TSP is used as a cleaning agent, builder, lubricant, food additive, stain remover, and degreaser. Trisodium phosphate.
https://en.wikipedia.org › wiki › Trisodium_phosphate
(TSP) detergent to clean lead-contaminated dust from surfaces, both after residential lead hazard control work to achieve post-abatement clearance standards and in general.

What is the best cleaner for lead dust? ›

You can use a special vacuum cleaner called a High Efficiency Particulate Air Filter (HEPA) vacuum to clean up lead. The HEPA vacuum has a special filter that can pick up and hold small pieces of lead. Another option is to use a wet/dry vacuum in the wet setting to clean up the wash or rinse water.

Why is trisodium phosphate a good cleaner? ›

Trisodium phosphate is water soluble, and is mixed with hot water to create a potent cleaning solution. The solution can be used for cutting through soot, grease, dirt, and other nasty messes.

Does TSP remove lead dust? ›

Some pros use trisodium phosphate (TSP), which neutralizes lead by turning it into lead phosphate. But TSP is poisonous—some states prohibit its use—and lead phosphate is a suspected carcinogen. Instead, try a phosphate-free, biodegradable detergent, like Ledizolv, which attracts and stabilizes lead dust.

What is TSP cleaner? ›

TSP or Trisodium Phosphate is a non-sudsing powdered cleaner formulated for heavy duty cleaning prior to painting. TSP is excellent for cleaning and removing heavy deposits of grease, grime, smoke, soot stains and chalked paint from walls, woodwork and floors.

Can you wash clothes with lead dust? ›

You should use detergents to remove lead. Other clothing should not be washed with the work clothing. After clothes are washed, the empty machine should be run through the wash cycle to remove any lead dust.

How do you remove lead contaminated dust from hard surfaces? ›

The most effective method for removing lead-contaminated dust combines vacuuming and wet wiping. Following the above instructions, first HEPA vacuum then scrub the entire unit.

What is better than TSP cleaner? ›

Simple Green is an environmentally safe alternative for TSP that is also not an irritant. It is a liquid cleaner that can clean an array of surfaces and material. Simple Green cleans and cuts grease well and there are a variety of formulations for different applications.

What should you not use TSP for? ›

Though TSP can be used for a wide variety of surfaces, it cannot be used for all surfaces. TSP can darken or stain some materials, and it can etch glass and mirrors.

What does trisodium phosphate do to your body? ›

Trisodium phosphate in food is deemed problematic by many health experts because of the potential health risks it can cause. It is believed to cause kidney damage, soft tissue calcification, and bone calcium remova. Continuous ingestion over a long period of time is linked to bone density diseases such as osteoporosis.

What soap to use for cleaning lead dust? ›

Wet cleaning is necessary for lead dust removal. Wet cleaning is conducted with an all-purpose cleaner such as 409. Even with special equipment and procedures, lead dust can be difficult to remove from dust traps such as: carpets, and rough surfaces.

Can Clorox wipes remove lead dust? ›

To clean up Lead dust you must use disposable wipes with surfactant-containing detergent. Clorox Wipes or Lysol Wipes or any similar brand have been proven to work well for this.

Will TSP remove mold? ›

TSP is excellent for cleaning and removing heavy deposits of grease, grime, smoke, soot stains and chalked paint from walls, woodwork and floors. TSP when mixed with bleach can be used to remove mold and mildew stains.

Can I use TSP to clean my bathtub? ›

However, if your bathtub has some tough stains, follow the following steps: Mix a teaspoon of trisodium phosphate cleaner (TSP) with hot water. Apply the solution on the stain with gentle rubbing using a sponge and rinse well.

Can I use TSP to clean a toilet? ›

Trisodium phosphate, a heavy-duty cleaning powder that can be found at your local home improvement store, is another great product that can be used to remove tough toilet stains. Measure one gallon of warm water with one tablespoon of trisodium phosphate and mix well.

How long to wait after cleaning with TSP? ›

Application Instructions. Removing grease and wax: Spray on surface, wait for 15 minutes then wipe clean with cloth soaked in clean water.

Does regular soap remove lead? ›

While washing with soap and water is often a sufficient means of removing lead residue, there are more efficient cleaning products that can almost completely eliminate lead content from your skin. Decontamination towels, for example, remove 98 percent of lead residue from skin.

Does bleach clean lead? ›

remove lead. Harsh cleaners like bleach should be avoided. NEVER mix cleaners. For small surfaces (including window sills, counter tops, shelves, etc.):

Does lead paint turn to dust? ›

When the paint peels and cracks, it makes lead paint chips and dust. Any surface covered with lead-based paint where the paint may wear by rubbing or friction is likely to cause lead dust including windows, doors, floors, porches, stairways, and cabinets.

Can vinegar clean lead? ›

If the stains are not too severe, they can be removed with a mild acid solution – vinegar or lemon juice work well. Use a nylon brush or very fine wire wool. Use our specially developed lead cleaner and restorer and remove the stains with a nylon brush or scourer.

Does white vinegar remove lead? ›

If you encounter leaded soap scum build up, it can be removed with an acid wash. Add 4 cups of white vinegar and run a wash cycle with the largest amount of warm water the machine settings will allow. Then run a rinse cycle. 10.

How do I test my house for lead dust? ›

You can test for lead in your home in one of the following three ways:
  1. Home test kits. These tell you if lead is present, but not how much is present. ...
  2. Environmental lab tests. These cost more than do-it-yourself home test kits. ...
  3. Licensed lead risk assessors.
May 12, 2021

Do you sand or TSP first? ›

Normally the areas are sanded and otherwise prepared before they are washed with TSP. Be sure to rinse with a clean, damp sponge and allow the surface to dry thoroughly.

Do you have to rinse TSP off walls? ›

Always be sure to completely rinse TSP from the walls (and let the walls dry) before you paint. If you don't, the new paint won't adhere properly. Rinsing the solution with a clean, damp sponge should be all you need to end up with a beautiful paint job.

Can I use Krud Kutter instead of TSP? ›

Krud Kutter's No-Rinse Pre-Paint Cleaner TSP Substitute saves hours of prep time. Cleans & etches surface prior to painting; no sanding required. Safe to use on all paints, varnish, lacquer, and polyurethane. Ready to use formula; simply spray, wipe in a circular motion and wipe off with a clean, lint-free rag.

Why is TSP banned in some states? ›

All phosphates, including trisodium phosphate (TSP) are excessively damaging to the environment, particularly lakes and rivers. More than 19 states and several counties in 15 other states limit the phosphorous content of household laundry products to 0.5% (this is assumed to be a virtual ban).

Is Simple Green a TSP cleaner? ›

Simple Green Ready-To-Use Surface Prep Cleaner

Surface Prep is a phosphate-free alternative to TSP, with a non-caustic and non-flammable formula that doesn't require respirators, gloves, or other protective equipment. It's ready-to-use straight out of the bottle, no mixing or heavy scrubbing required.

What is the safest TSP option? ›

What is the safest TSP fund? The G fund is generally the safest option as it invests in government securities. Although you won't lose money investing in this fund, your rate of return will be low. This may be a good option if you are close to retirement.

What are the disadvantages of TSP fertilizer? ›

The disadvantages for producing TSP fertilizer from phosphate rock are purity, insolubility, and reduction of natural mineral resources. Therefore, it is necessary to find another raw material to replace phosphate rock, such as calcium carbonate obtained from limestone minerals or various shells/eggshells.

What are the negative effects of trisodium phosphate? ›

* Sodium Phosphate, Tribasic can affect you when breathed in and by passing through your skin. * Contact can irritate and burn the skin and eyes. * Breathing Sodium Phosphate, Tribasic can irritate the nose and throat causing coughing and wheezing.

What are the symptoms of phosphorus poisoning in the mouth? ›

Symptoms. Those with phossy jaw would usually begin suffering painful toothaches and swelling of the gums. The pain was characterized as "persistent yet progressive ... spreading to neighboring teeth and jawbone".

Can alcohol wipes remove lead? ›

Alcohol wipes do not sufficiently remove lead dust; wash the child's hands before performing capillary BLL tests. A venous blood lead test is required to confirm capillary results greater than or equal to five micrograms of lead per deciliter of blood (>5 mcg/dL).

Does lead dust stay in the air? ›

Of course you can get lead poisoning from breathing in lead dust. But when lead dust travels through the air, it settles in soil and water, and blows inside your home and even onto neighboring properties.

Is there lead dust everywhere? ›

Lead can be found in all parts of our environment – the air, the soil, the water, and even inside our homes.

What not to clean with Clorox wipes? ›

Like most disinfectants, Clorox wipes are approved for disinfecting only non-porous surfaces. It's best to avoid unfinished, unsealed, unpainted, waxed, oiled, or worn surfaces. Avoid cleaning carpet or fabric with the wipes, too, since it won't work, and you'll have to extract the cleaning agent from the fabric.

Can you wipe your TV with Clorox wipes? ›

Don't use Clorox Wipes to clean your TV. Not only is the cleaner too harsh for most flat screens, but the wipe itself is rough and will leave behind scratches.

Is it OK to wipe monitor with Clorox wipes? ›

That being said, Forté says most Apple laptops and monitors — or any laptop with a glass-protected screen — can be wiped down with either Lysol or Clorox disinfecting wipes. Since laptops are routinely handled, Forté says even if you disinfect your device, it won't stay disinfected for long.

Does vinegar disinfect mold? ›

Vinegar has antifungal and antibacterial properties, and it can be a cheap and effective treatment for many types of mold.

Is baking soda or vinegar better for mold? ›

Yes, vinegar is a mild acid that kills 82% of mold species. It's often used as a natural and nontoxic alternative to cleaning chemicals when it comes to killing household mold. Cleaning vinegar, which contains 6% acetic acid, is the best type for killing mold.

Does baking soda break down mold? ›

Baking soda is mild, harmless to your family and pets, and is a natural and safe household cleaner. It can also kill mold. Baking soda and vinegar are typically used together when dealing with a mold problem since they kill different species of mold.

Does Dawn dish soap clean fiberglass tub? ›

If your fiberglass shower is especially grimy, prewash it with several drops of dish soap, like Dawn, mixed with 2 cups of warm water prior to applying your vinegar wash. Fill a bucket with vinegar. Apply vinegar to the fiberglass shower by soaking a rag or sponge in the solution and wiping it directly onto the doors.

Does baking soda help clean tub? ›

Baking soda can remove hard dirt from the acrylic. For tough stains: First, fill the tub with hot water and vinegar. Allow this soaking mixture to stay for 15 minutes or more to loosen any mildew and scum, then drain the water. Use a damp cloth or sponge to scrub the baking soda into the tub and faucets.

How do you clean a bathtub and shower without scrubbing it? ›

But don't worry; here are five ways to clean your shower tiles effectively without scrubbing.
  1. #1. Baking soda and hydrogen peroxide. ...
  2. #2. Vinegar and baking soda. ...
  3. #3. Vinegar and dish soap. ...
  4. #4. Bleach and hot water. ...
  5. #5. Steam clean. ...
  6. Do you need help? Let us do the work!

What do professional cleaners use to clean toilets? ›

Professional cleaners often use the same household supplies as you would: toilet-bowl cleaner (or bleach), disinfectant wipes, rubber gloves, as well as a nonscratch scrub sponge, a microfiber cloth, or paper towels. A handheld scrub brush or a pumice stone can get to especially tough stains.

What is the best acid to clean a toilet bowl with? ›

Muriatic acid is best for removing stubborn toilet bowl stains.

What causes brown stain in bottom of toilet bowl? ›

That brown toilet-bowl stain isn't what you think it is

It's actually due to high concentrations of minerals in hard water, like calcium, iron, and manganese, that build up inside the toilet bowl over time, according to Hunker. In particular, iron oxide, or rust, is the main problem.

Should I wear gloves when cleaning with TSP? ›

2 TSP requires care when you work with it. Always use eye protection and waterproof gloves when handling or cleaning with TSP. Also wear full skin protection, including long sleeves and long pants. Safety precautions apply to both dry and mixed or diluted forms of TSP.

Should you wear a mask when using TSP? ›

Toxicity: TSP is toxic and must be handled with care. That means wearing the appropriate protective gear. Wear full-sleeve clothing in addition to gloves, glasses, and a respiratory mask.

Is N95 mask good for lead dust? ›

N95 masks do NOT protect you against chemical vapors, gases, carbon monoxide, gasoline, asbestos, lead or low oxygen environments.

What air purifier removes lead dust? ›

Purchase Camfil HEPA air purifiers or Camil HEPA air filters to protect yourself from the harm of lead dust, contact Camfil immediately. Don't wait, as any and all lead exposure is unsafe.

How do you manage lead dust? ›

Use of wet sanding and chemical strippers. Dust extraction, fit testing, encapsulation and correct use of appropriate PPE. Avoid the agitation of dust from dry sweeping or the use of compressed air. Instead, wet-wipe surfaces or use a HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) vacuum.

How do you pass a lead dust test? ›

To pass, the window well NEEDS to be white glove/spotlessly clean. It only takes 1/2 of one grain of salt of lead dust per square foot to fail. Ideally wooden windows are prepared in the morning for an afternoon inspection.

What mask is best for mold? ›

If there is mold in your home (or you suspect that mold growth has occurred), protect your mouth and nose against breathing in mold by wearing at least a disposable, NIOSH-approved N-95 filtering facepiece respirator (often called an “N-95 respirator” or “N-95 mask”).

What mask is best for cement dust? ›

3M and Moldex Dust Masks

A rating of N95 means that a given mask is guaranteed to filter 95% of particles. These 3M N95 masks can protect against concrete dust and wood shop dust as well as airborne pathogens such as H1N1, influenza, allergies, and swine flu.

What are the best gloves for handling lead? ›

We recommend simple palm coated gloves like the MCR Safety 9688 Flex Tuff II gloves. They're also inexpensive, protective, and have a grey latex coating that makes getting a good grip on things easier. One good tip is to tape your gloves to your Tyvek suit once you get them all on.

Why do air purifiers have a prop 65 warning? ›

Simply put, the warning means that the manufacturer believes the product might contain any of the 800-plus chemicals that the State of California considers harmful. It does not mean that the labeled products themselves are necessarily harmful or are in violation of any safety standard.

Does Swiffer pick up lead dust? ›

You Can Safely And Easily with Daily Clean Up Lead Paint Dust For Children With A Lysol-type Wipe or Swiffer-Type Mop Under All Old Doors And Window Sills.

Which filters remove lead from drinking water? ›

Activated carbon filters can purify your water by removing most contaminants, including lead. Lead can also be removed through reverse osmosis and distillation.

How do you remove lead from your body naturally? ›

There are dietary products which stimulate the body's ability to excrete lead acquired from the environment. For reducing blood lead levels, vitamin C, vitamin E, thiamine (B1), folate (B9) and iron have the strongest and most consistent blood lead links.

What are the symptoms of high lead levels? ›

Symptoms of lead poisoning include headaches, stomach cramps, constipation, muscle/joint pain, trouble sleeping, fatigue, irritability, and loss of sex drive. Most adults with lead poisoning don't look or feel sick.

How do you test for lead poisoning at home? ›

You can test for lead in your home in one of the following three ways:
  1. Home test kits. These tell you if lead is present, but not how much is present. ...
  2. Environmental lab tests. These cost more than do-it-yourself home test kits. ...
  3. Licensed lead risk assessors.
May 12, 2021

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