EPA Certifications Ensures No Hefty Fines
According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), painting and maintenance activities can release lead dust and chips from paints manufactured prior to 1978. To prevent lead poisoning, the EPA issued its Lead Renovation, Repair & Painting (RRP) rules, which went into effect April 22, 2010.
Contractor companies (including sole proprietorship) and individual contractors performing indoor or outdoor renovation, repair, and painting projects that disturb lead–based paint in homes, childcare facilities, and schools built before 1978 must be certified, trained, and follow specific work practices to prevent lead contamination. Noncompliant contractors could be fined up to $37,500 per violation, per day.
To receive EPA certification for lead paint work, contractors must pay a fee and attend an 8–hour EPA–approved lead paint training course covering the following:
- Procedures for alerting residents and other responsible parties about lead hazards
- Approved dust–containment, cleanup, and disposal procedures
- Required documentation and record–keeping
The New EPA Lead Paint Laws & Requirements
When working on a project involving lead–based paint, federal law requires certified, EPA–trained contractors to do the following:
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Additional Information
Listen to our free webinar, "New EPA Lead Paint Regulations," for a detailed explanation of the regulations and their impact to your business.
Download the EPA's lead–hazard information pamphlet, "Small Entity Compliance Guide to Renovate Right" for certified training information, complete contractor compliance guidelines, and exceptions to these rules.
You can also find an EPA–accredited lead paint training EPA–accredited lead paint training program by calling the National Lead Information Center Hotline at (800) 424–5323.