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  • Children and pregnant women should stay away from areas being renovated, to avoid being exposed to potentially harmful substances. 
  • Control and contain all dust. Seal off the rest of the house from the renovation site with plastic sheeting and duct tape and close heating and cooling vents. particularly in older homes (built before 1978), renovation dust can contain high levels of lead, which is toxic to the developing brain.
  • Choose less toxic paints, finishes and glues. Look for products labeled “VOC-free,” “zero-VOC” or “low-VoC.” open the windows and use fans to bring in fresh air during and after use of these products.
  • Keep your work clothes and shoes in a separate hamper, or in a shed or garage. wash them separately from other laundry.

Want to learn more? Check out these CPCHE resources and FAQs:

Additional CPCHE Fact Sheets

Related FAQs: 
I am expecting a baby and want to prepare the baby’s room. Are there any safe products for me to use?
I know so much more about toxic substances and health risks now than I did when I was pregnant. My child may have been exposed to some contaminants when we did some home repairs. What can I do?
I live in a house that I think was built in the 1930s or 1940s. How can I find out if there is lead in the paint?
I want to put new insulation in my attic. I think there might be asbestos in the old insulation that is there. What should I do?
Should I be testing for radon levels in my home?
We are planning some renovations in our home. How can I find a contractor who will take seriously the need to prevent renovation dust from getting into my home?
We are planning some renovations. How can I keep dust from getting from the work area into the rest of my home?
We found mould during our renovations. What should we do?
We only have one vacuum cleaner for our home. Should we use it to clean up renovation dust?
What are the safest products to use when I am repairing or renovating my home?
What do you mean by "healthy retrofits"?
Related Resources: 
Healthy Retrofits: The Case for Better Integration of Children’s Environmental Health Protection into Energy Efficiency Programs
Bust That Dust
Related Collections: 
Safe Renovations
Healthy Retrofits