EPA New Rule “Lead: Renovation, Repair and Painting Program”

Beginning this month, April 2010, contractors performing renovation, repair and painting projects that disturb lead-based paint in homes, child care facilities, and schools built before 1978 must be certified and must follow specific work practices to prevent lead contamination.

The EPA issued a rule requiring the use of lead-safe practices on April 22, 2008 which is aimed at preventing lead poisoning from risks including common renovation activities like sanding, cutting, and demolition which can create hazardous lead dust and chips by disturbing lead-based paint that can be harmful to adults and children.

After April 22, 2010, federal law will require you to be certified and to use lead-safe work practices. To become certified, renovation contractors must submit an application and fee payment to EPA. Contractors will need to take training with a provider that has been accredited by EPA to provide training for renovators under EPA's Renovation, Repair, and Painting (RRP) Program. If you previously completed an eligible renovation training course you may take the 4-hour refresher course instead of the 8-hour initial course from an accredited training provider to become a certified renovator.

Information for contractors can be found on the following link: http://www.epa.gov/lead/pubs/renovation.htm#contractors

Contractors and training providers working in Wisconsin, Iowa, North Carolina or Mississippi must contact the state to find out more about its training and certification requirements. These states are authorized to administer their own RRP programs in lieu of the federal program.

Visit the U.S. Environment Protection Agency website for more information: