More than 50 million homes which were built before 1978 have lead-based paint. If disturbed, the lead-based paint becomes a hazard known to cause delays in physical and mental development and even death in children, and cause high blood pressure and reproductive problems in adults.

UNC Asheville's Lead Poisoning Prevention Program is working to combat this threat. A workshop on "Lead-Safe Work Practices" will be held from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 20, at the Asheville Friends Meeting House, 227 Edgewood Rd. The cost for the course is $100 and the deadline to register is Monday, Feb. 16.

The course will be taught by UNC Asheville Lead Poisoning Prevention staff members Linda Block, certified risk assessor, and Adrianne Weir, certified lead inspector. The class will provide safety information to painters, renovators, maintenance workers, realtors and others who may work on home improvement projects on structures built before 1978. Participants who successfully complete the course receive a protective suit, dust mask, course materials and a certificate of completion.

For more information about "Lead-Safe Work Practices," call 828/251-6104 or visit www.unca.edu/eqi/lpp/training.html.