In what year were lead-based paints banned for residential use?

The ban on lead-based paints for residential use was enacted in 1978 as part of the Consumer Product Safety Commission's regulations, responding to the public health concerns regarding lead poisoning, particularly in children. Lead exposure can have severe neurological and developmental effects, and the decision to prohibit lead-based paints aimed to protect vulnerable populations. The 1978 ban specifically targeted the manufacture and sale of residential paints that contained lead, marking a significant step in the efforts to reduce lead exposure in homes. Understanding this historical context is crucial for lead risk assessors, as it helps them to recognize the importance of lead safety regulations and the continuous need for awareness in managing properties built before this ban.