Washington—
As of Oct. 1, the EPA’s Renovation, Repair and Painting Rule (RRP) addressing the presence and removal of lead-based paint in target housing and child-occupied facilities reached its date of enforcement.
The EPA regulation requires a Certified Renovator (CR) and the incorporation of lead safe work practices in most pre-1978 residences and child-occupied properties beginning on or after April 22, 2010. Lead-based paint was banned in the U.S. in 1978.
The EPA estimated that 236,000 individuals required the 8-hour certification class, prior to the rule going into effect, and that 47,000 per year will require training thereafter. While general renovators, window replacement contractors and painting contractors represent the largest group of professionals impacted, flooring contractors are also affected being that most jobs use wall base.
As of Oct. 1, the EPA may suspend, revoke, or modify a firm’s certification if the firm is found to be in non-compliance. Non-compliant contractors may be liable for civil penalties of up to $37,500 for each violation. Contractors who knowingly or willfully violate this regulation may face fines up to an additional $37,500 per violation, or imprisonment, or both.
For additional information on the EPA’s Renovation, Repair and Painting Rule, lead poisoning, lead abatement, and certification training, go to epa.gov/lead or call 800.424.5323.