SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/home-a-lead-mist

Before sanding or scraping old paint, what does EPA suggest to keep dust down?

Mist the surface with a spray bottle or pump sprayer.

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  1. Dry-sand it as fast as possible
  2. Mist the area with a spray bottle ✔
  3. Blow the dust away with a fan

Why: EPA lists a spray mister or pump sprayer to mist areas before sanding, scraping, drilling and cutting. Wet dust stays put instead of floating through the house.

Huh, didn't know that: EPA also lists wet-dry sandpaper, a HEPA vacuum and power tools with HEPA vacuum attachments.

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Did you hear about the artist who paints in jail? He had a brush with the law.
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References

Answer: Mist the area with a spray bottle. EPA lists a spray mister or pump sprayer to mist areas before sanding, scraping, drilling and cutting. Wet dust stays put instead of floating through the house.

  1. EPA: Lead-Safe Renovations for DIYers www.epa.gov/lead/lead-safe-renovations-diyers
    Spray mister or pump sprayer to mist areas before sanding, scraping, drilling, and cutting to keep the dust down
    Checked 2026-10-10.

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