EPA Lead Paint Rule

Renovation, Repair and Painting Rule

 

Electronic systems contractors performing installation work inside homes or buildings built before 1978 must be aware of, and comply with, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA’s) new Lead:  Renovation, Repair and Painting rule.

The rule applies to work that disturbs surfaces potentially contaminated with lead paint.  Anyone who performs work in pre-1978 homes and buildings which are occupied by children under the age of six or by a pregnant woman must comply. The rule affects renovation, repair and painting projects that disturb more than six square feet of space on an interior wall or 20 square feet on an exterior wall.

The rule will be fully implemented by April 2010, but parts of the rule are in effect now.  A requirement for pre-renovation education has been in effect since December 2008.  In housing, contractors must distribute the EPA’s Renovate Right brochure, obtain confirmation of receipt and retain the confirmation for three years.

Beginning April 22, 2010, the EPA’s rule will be in full compliance, and all applicable renovations must be performed by certified firms using certified renovators.  To become certified, firms must fill out an application and pay a fee to the EPA.  Firms may begin to apply for certification on October 22, 2009.  To become a certified renovator, a person must complete an EPA-approved eight-hour training course from an EPA-accredited training provider.  Certification will be good for 5 years.

For more information, visit the following links:

 

Implementation Timeline:

 

  • April 22, 2008 – EPA issued a new rule requiring the use of lead-safe practices.

  • December 2008 – Remodelers must start distributing the new EPA Renovate Right pamphlet when working in pre-1978 houses.

  • April 22, 2009 – Training providers may begin applying for accreditation.  Once training providers are accredited, they may offer training courses that will allow renovators to become certified.

  • October 22, 2009 – Renovation firms may begin applying for certification.

  • April 22, 2010 – New rule becomes fully effective.  Renovation firms must be certified and follow specific work practices.