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Prepare for New EPA Lead Paint Rule With Free NAHB Information
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NAHB has free resources available online to help remodelers prepare for when the EPA's lead paint rule takes effect in 2010. | NAHB has new, free resources and information available on the NAHB Web site to help remodelers understand and prepare for the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's newly-published Lead: Renovation, Repair and Painting rule governing the work of professional remodelers in homes where there is lead-based paint.
The EPA rule was published in the Federal Register on April 22 and will take effect in April 2010.
NAHB’s “Lead Paint: EPA’s Final Rule on Remodeling and Renovation,” explains the circumstances under which the rule applies, remodelers’ responsibilities and procedures under the rule, and what exemptions are possible.
The information, as well as additional articles and links to resources on the lead paint rule, can be downloaded from www.nahb.org/leadpaint.
The EPA rule 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.
It 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.
The EPA rule also lists prohibited work practices ― including open-torch burning and using high-heat guns and high-speed equipment such as grinders and sanders not equipped with a HEPA filter.
Additionally, the rule establishes required lead-safe work practices, including posting warning signs for occupants and visitors, using disposable plastic drop cloths, cleaning the work area with HEPA vacuuming and wet washin, and individual certification through a training course.
NAHB’s “Lead Paint: EPA’s Final Rule on Remodeling and Renovation” explains that remodeling companies working on structures covered by the EPA rule are responsible for educating their customers, creating safe containment areas using disposable drop cloths, using lead-safe work practices, cleaning up, verifying site cleaning, obtaining training and certification for the appropriate workers and keeping records of applicable remodeling jobs.
To review or download NAHB’s new lead paint resource document, click here.
For more information, e-mail Matt Watkins at NAHB, or call him at 800-368-5242 x8327.
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