The new rule applies to every trade where lead based paint is disturbed.
As of April 22, 2010 the United States Environmental Protection Agency’s Lead Renovation, Repair & Painting Rule (40 CFR 745) will be in effect .
Under the new rule, EPA-certification is required and specific lead safe work practices must be followed by anyone disturbing more than six square feet of painted surface on the interior (Twenty square feet on the exterior) as part of their work in pre-1978 homes, schools, and other buildings.
The new rule requires contractors to comply with the pre-renovation education requirements, training, certification and accreditation requirements, work practice standards, post renovation cleaning verification and recordkeeping requirements. Contractors will have to complete an EPA accredited 8 hour training course that teaches contractors how to comply with the provisions of the regulation mentioned above. In addition to the training, contractors will be required to apply for their firms’ certification through the EPA and adopt the specific work practices taught in the 8 hour course.
The EPA is authorized to impose fines ($37,500 per violation, per day) and penalties upon contractors and firms that do not comply with this rule. Knowing or willful violations of the rule by contractors of firms can even result in imprisonment.
For some, in today’s economic climate, that competitive edge may mean the difference between financial stability and downfall. Most cities, counties, school districts and local governments have taken notice of this new federal requirement and will inevitably require EPA certification of their vendors.
Abatix is offering several RRP Initial and Refresher classes to meet the new requirements:
Please see the Abatix training page for more information or contact Jennifer Cobarruvias at (562) 457-7844.
