National Association of the Remodeling Industry---Educating Contractors on New EPA Law
New EPA Mandatory Lead-Safe Work Practices

MELVILLE, NY, March 14, 2010 /24-7PressRelease/ -- With only 1 month to go until the new lead paint regulations take effect, remodelers are still faced with a lot of uncertainty. What we do know is that starting April 22, remodelers will have to start using lead-safe work practices as defined by the Lead Renovation, Repair and Painting Program Rule; be certified to use those practices; and keep detailed records to verify they followed the rules. (The full rule is available at http://epa.gov/lead/pubs/renovation.htm.)

1. What projects will this apply to?
Any project, in a pre-1978 home, that disturbs more than 6 square feet of interior painted surface or 20 square feet of exterior surface. While the opt-out provision seems to be going by the wayside, remodelers can still avoid following the procedures if the home is tested and declared to be free of lead paint by a certified inspector.
2. What training and certification do remodelers need?
Firms must have at least one person on staff that is trained in lead-safe work practices. This requires an eight-hour course provided by an EPA-certified trainer . Training costs average $300.00 a person. Remodeling companies also have to be certified by the EPA. Firms can start applying this month for the $300 certification. The training and certification has to be renewed every five years.
3. How will the rules be enforced?
Right now, it comes down to paperwork. Remodelers have to keep records for three years that show they followed all of the various procedures. At any time, those records can be audited by the EPA. States can create their own enforcement arms as well, so your local situation may vary.
4. How much will this add to the average project price?
Certainly more than the $35 the EPA originally estimated when they published the rule. Remodelers and trade associates have given estimates ranging from hundreds to thousands of dollars. It will have a bigger impact on smaller projects.

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Teresa Hansen
NARI
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