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While most of us have concentrated on recent reports of lead used to paint imported toys, we may have forgotten the threat posed by domestic lead that lurks in many of our homes. However, the Environmental Protection Agency has retained its focus on that danger, and as a result has instituted a new regulation that requires all contractors whose work impacts as little as 6 square feet of lead paint in a room to complete a certification course in lead safe work practices.
The EPA may start issuing citations and fines as early as April 24, for non-compliance. The EPA's Lead-Based Paint Renovation, Repair and Painting (RRP) Program are slated to take effect around the nation. The rules dictate that construction firms must apply for and receive EPA certification to disturb paint as part of their work in pre-1978 housing and child-occupied facilities. In addition, relevant jobs must be supervised by certified renovators; individuals who have completed an EPA-accredited, training course in lead practices and handling. The program applies to areas over twenty square feet of exterior space and six square feet of interior space; so changing a light switch falls outside the purvey, while installing a window or repainting of even a door may be covered by the mandate. For the full description of this regulation, explore: http://www.epa.gov/lead/pubs/renovation.htm
“As is sometimes the case, this one is really going to sneak up on the industry. Until some fines are levied, or until home and property owners ask to see the certification, a lot of contractors and even painters may simply not be in compliance. Said Ian Forster, who teaches the Lead Safety Course at Criterion Labs in Bucks County. ‘We are concerned that there may be painters, renovators and decorators who either have not gotten the message or are procrastinating because April of 2010 seems further off than it is. That lethargy is often what spurs a round of nasty surprises in the form of fines imposed to get the word out with a bit more clarity.” “My best advice to homeowners is to start asking about lead certification on ANY project if your home or facility was built prior to 1978.
The assumption that lead paint has all been removed or contained is inaccurate, and frankly, there are good reasons for the EPA’s regulation, so skirting this law can be…well, toxic.” “Anyone who expressed concern about lead paint on a child’s toy should be incrementally more concerned about the greater volumes around their home or day care facility.”
