EPA New Requirement
This past Earth Day, April 22, 2010, renovating an older home became a bit more difficult for contractors. A new federal rule went into affect stating contractors working on almost all homes built before 1978 must be approved by the Environmental Protection Agency. In addition, contractors need approval to perform work on all child care facilities and school buildings built before 1978. If contractors fail to receive EPA approval, they can face fines of up to $37,500 daily.
The EPA ruling requires the use of lead-safe practices and methods intended to prevent lead poisoning. Under the rule, contractors involved in renovations, repairs and painting projects must be trained and certified in EPA-approved methods of containing and cleaning up work areas.
O’Connor’s Painting Service, INC. became an EPA certified company this past March by participating in an eight hour training course from an EPA-approved training provider. The course focused on lead-safe practices structured around 3 simple procedures:
- Contain the work area
- Minimize dust
- Clean up thoroughly
To learn more about renovating right, visit http://www.epa.gov/lead/pubs/renovation.htm
Or read the Renovate Right: Important Lead Hazard Information for Families, Child Care Providers, and Schools pamphlet for homeowners to learn what the new law is all about.