Stripping lead paint

[Bran22]

Hello,

Is anyone experienced in safe removal of lead paint? I’m stripping paint from my stairs this week. I’m using paint stripper and PPE as it’s probably lead paint due to the age of the house. I’ve read loads about the topic so being very cautious - have young kids in the house.

Wondering though once I’ve got the paint off do I need to seal it immediately with whatever finish I’m going for in order for it to be safe to walk on?

I’ve got the side I’ve stripped covered up at the mo as I’ve not seen this discussed anywhere online or in any guides. The paint comes off really well, I’ve given it a wet scour and a wash but… surely there’ll be some residue in the wood?

Also read one UK guide recommending washing the room worked in with solution of dishwashing liquid - presumably something special in that which bonds with lead?

Source

All advice welcome!

Don't panic. Make sure you strip it as far as your stripper will take you, get anything you stripped off scraped/cleaned off, and safely disposed of. Dispose of all rags etc. If the wood looks clean with no visible bits of paint, but just a little white in colour in the grain, I wouldn't worry if you intend to paint it shortly, provided you have no kids or pets who might lick/chew it!
You can absorb lead through the skin, but that's really only if it is powder. And of course you should never breathe in the dust, so don't sand it. If you're worried, just cover it until you put whatever paint on it you intend to use.

Thanks @BlueMongoose that’s really helpful. Most of the staircase appears to be completely back to the wood, which took several coats of stripper and more patience than I usually have!

For peace of mind I’ll cover up the odd patch until I oil them in the next week or so.

Thanks!