What practice can significantly reduce lead dust in homes?

Using wet mopping techniques is an effective practice for significantly reducing lead dust in homes. This approach works by utilizing moisture to trap and remove dust particles that might contain lead, instead of allowing them to become airborne or settle back into the environment. Wet mopping can help dislodge fine particles from surfaces and ensure they are collected, rather than just being pushed around.

In contrast, methods like vacuuming with a standard vacuum can often just redistribute dust or fail to capture fine particles effectively, particularly if the vacuum is not equipped with HEPA filtration. Allowing air currents to disperse dust increases the risk of inhalation or resettlement throughout the home, which does not address the lead hazard effectively. Cleaning only when visible dust is present may lead to neglecting hidden areas where lead dust can accumulate, creating a persistent risk.

Overall, the practice of wet mopping incorporates a proactive and thorough method of managing lead dust, making it the best choice for reducing risks associated with lead exposure in households.