Although the dangers of ingesting lead dust have been known and documented for over two hundred fifty years, lead, a neurotoxin, was not banned in the United States until 1978. There is still a lack of awareness of the dangers associated with disturbing surfaces which contain lead-based paint. This lack of awareness is a major factor contributing to lead poisoning regardless of socioeconomic class. As preservationists, this problem is of particular importance, as we work primarily with structures likely to contain lead-based paint. Because any project which involves disturbing surfaces which contain lead-based paint will generate dust that contains lead and expose anyone who enters the work area to potential lead contamination and poisoning, it is essential that proper precautions are taken. In addition to discussing the history of lead in paint, the health dangers of lead, and the history of legislation enacted to protect the public from lead poisoning, the author proposes a solution for addressing the dangers of lead-based paint in a safe, cost effective manner. The author refers to his approach as the Three E 's: (a) education-- increasing awareness of the dangers of disturbing lead-based paint, (b) enactment-- the need for legislation so that contractors and property owners follow safety protocols, and (c) enforcement-- a method to ensure compliance with the safety protocols. Finally, the author offers recommendations so preservationists are prepared to effectively address the issue of lead-based paint in projects with which they may be involved. The author surveyed documentation on the history of the use of lead in paint, historic paint manufacturing techniques, and the history of the knowledge of problems associated with lead in paint. Case studies and interviews with homeowners and contractors who live in or who have worked on houses likely to have contained lead-based paint are also included.