What must be avoided when using heat guns during lead inspection?

When using heat guns during lead inspection, it’s crucial to avoid heating materials to temperatures above 1,100 °F. This is important because at and above this temperature, lead can begin to vaporize, releasing harmful lead fumes into the air. These fumes can pose serious health risks through inhalation, which is particularly concerning in environments where proper ventilation may not be present.

Maintaining a temperature below 1,100 °F ensures that the material is heated enough to facilitate lead removal without generating unsafe levels of dangerous lead exposure. The other aspects, such as ventilation, respiratory protection, and skin contact, are also relevant safety considerations, but the specific danger associated with exceeding 1,100 °F directly relates to lead's harmful properties and air quality safety during the inspection process. Thus, it’s critical to manage heat appropriately to protect both the inspector and the occupants of the building.