Heavy metals in buildings

Heavy metals such as lead, cadmium and mercury may occur in older building materials, coatings and technical components. Whether they create an exposure risk depends on factors including the condition of the material, its use and the work being planned.

Typical locations

Older timber windows and metal components may have lead-containing paint. Old lead pipes, certain electrical components and lamps may also be relevant. Building age and existing documentation provide useful indications but do not replace an investigation.

Investigation and assessment

An initial assessment identifies suspect materials and possible release pathways. Appropriate sampling and laboratory analysis can establish which metals are present and at what concentrations. Findings need to be assessed in the context of the specific component and the proposed project.

Planning refurbishment and dismantling

Sanding, stripping or dismantling contaminated coatings can release dust containing hazardous substances. Investigation results should therefore inform protective measures, material separation and disposal planning before work begins. The measures required are determined for each project.

Advice from SFG Consulting

SFG Consulting supports you in assessing suspected hazardous materials and planning the next steps for your building project. Contact us with details of the building, the materials concerned and the proposed work.