The Removal of Lead-Based Paint from Steel Bridges

The purpose of this study was to assist the Department of Highways in conducting bridge-painting operations involving removal of existing lead-based paint. Pertinent state and Federal regulations affecting generation of hazardous wastes, limiting environmental pollution and protecting public and worker safety were obtained and reviewed.State highway agendas were surveyed relative to how they conducted maintenance bridge painting involving lead-based. paints and comply with applicable regulations. Information from the painting industry related to sale removal of lead-based paints was also reviewed. Based upon the reviews of applicable regulations, operations of other state highway agencies and painting industry practices, the best demonstrated available technology to use in removing lead-based paints from bridges was identified. The key technologies incorporated the use of: 1) containment enclosures over the open abrasive blasting, 2) recyclable abrasives and 3) closed material-handling systems to move abrasive-blasting wastes. The Study Advisory Committee determined that the Best Demonstrated Available Technology would be applied to all bridge maintenance painting operations involving the full removal of lead-based paints. The Committee decided that the Department of Highways would limit painting contractors\u27 work to painting-related activities. The Department employ a consultant to monitor activities related to the generation of hazardous wastes. The consultant would also inspect the contractor\u27s painting work. The Department would also employ a contractor to transport treat and dispose hazardous wastes generated by abrasive blasting. Three documents were prepared to facilitate this work including: 1) an experimental special provision for bridge maintenance painting, 2) a invitation-to-bid for hazardous waste transport and disposal, and 3) a consultant services contract for environmental monitoring, waste management and inspection of contractor painting operations