The two corrosion inhibitors traditionally used in coatings, red lead and zinc chromate, are toxic compounds with a variety of adverse health effects. Because they are so effective in their corrosion inhibiting capacity, many structures carry red lead- and zinc chromate-containing paints. As these structures age and are repaired or demolished, the coatings are disturbed triggering a host of regulatory requirements. This paper briefly outlines the major health effects of lead, zinc, and chromium, the U.S. regulations believed to be applicable to most projects involving in-place paints containing red lead or zinc chromate, and the liability issues that may affect such projects.
Keywords: red lead, zinc chromate, paints, federal regulations, chromium, toxicology, liability, corrosion inhibitors