|
Remodelers Required to Hand Out EPA Lead Paint Pamphlet
With the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's Lead: Renovation, Repair and Painting rule governing the work of professional remodelers in homes where there is lead-based paint set to become fully effective a year from now, remodelers are now required to hand out the new EPA pamphlet, “Renovate Right,” to potential clients who own homes built before 1978 so that they are aware of the new lead paint regulations.
The brochure is available free on the EPA’s Web site by clicking here, or by calling 800-424-LEAD (5323).
The rule, which will take effect on April 22, 2010, addresses remodeling and renovation projects disturbing more than six square feet of potentially contaminated painted surfaces for all residential and multifamily structures built prior to 1978 that are inhabited or frequented by pregnant women and children under the age of six.
What Remodelers Can Expect
When the rule takes effect, firms working in pre-1978 homes will need to be certified by the EPA and must follow specific work practices to prevent lead contamination. The fee for a firm’s certification is $300.
- Training and Certification Will Be Required
Along with the firm certification, the rule specifies that, for work done in pre-1978 homes, an employee will also need to be certified as a certified renovator and be responsible for training other employees and oversee work practices and cleaning on the job.
The training, which is currently being developed by the EPA, will be conducted during an eight-hour class and include two hours of hands-on training.
The certification of a firm and a certified renovator will be valid for five years. A certified renovator will be required to take a four-hour refresher course to be recertified under the rule.
- Specific Work Practices Will Have to Be Followed
The rule establishes required lead-safe work practices, including: posting warning signs for occupants and visitors by the certified renovator; establishing a containment area; using disposable plastic drop cloths; and cleaning the work area with HEPA vacuuming and wet washing.
The rule also requires a cleaning inspection after the work is completed and grants the remodeler flexibility in determining the size of the work area, which can reduce the size of the area subject to containment.
In addition, the EPA rule also lists prohibited work practices ― including open-torch burning and using high-heat guns that exceed 1100 F and high-speed equipment such as grinders and sanders unless equipped with a HEPA filter.
- Verifying the Cleaning and Record Keeping
After clean-up is completed, the certified renovator will be required to verify the cleaning by matching a cleaning cloth with an EPA verification card. If the cloth appears dirtier or darker than the card, the cleaning must be repeated.
In addition, the certified renovator will be required to keep a complete file of records on the project for three years. These records will include, but will not be limited to: verification that the owner or occupant of the home has received a copy of the “Renovate Right” pamphlet, or an attempt has been made to inform them of the pamphlet and its contents; documentation of work practices used during the project; and the certified renovator’s certification and proof of worker training.
NAHB believes that record keeping will be a major enforcement tool for the regulation.
Learn More
For extensive information on the rule, provided by NAHB Remodelers, visit www.nahb.org/leadpaint.
This includes the hour-long audio seminar presented by NAHB Remodelers and The NAHB University of Housing, “The EPA’s New Lead Paint Rule: What it Means for You,” in which participants explain in detail what the new rule covers, how to be in compliance and where to find additional information.
The seminar is available free to NAHB members, but members must be logged on to the NAHB Web site to see and take advantage of the offer. Regular price is $79.
For more information, e-mail Matt Watkins at NAHB, or call him at 800-368-5242 x8327.
 Increase Your Professional Credibility
The Certified Graduate Remodeler (CGR) designation emphasizes business management skills as the key to a professional remodeling operation.
Remodelers who earn the CGR become members of an exclusive national program and gain recognition as industry leaders.
To learn more about the CGR designation, visit www.nahb.org/CGRinfo, or call The Professional Designation Help Line at 800-368-5242 x8154.
|
