(09/30/2009) The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has launched a new campaign to educate contractors about tougher regulations regarding removal of lead paint at job sites. The new rules go into effect in April 2010.
At that time, all firms who disturb lead paint as part of their work in pre-1978 homes, schools, and other buildings must be EPA-certified. All of these jobs must be supervised by a certified renovator who has completed an EPA-accredited one-day training course, and other employees will have to receive specific on-the-job training.
All contractors must be trained and certified by April 2010. Even contractors with previous training and certification must be trained and certified under this new program. In some cases, a shorter “refresher” course may be adequate.
The EPA’s website now lists over 50 accredited trainers at epa.gov/lead/pubs/trainingproviders.htm. Check back often if you do not find one near you today, as the list grows weekly. A number of trainers have been approved to teach at your location, making training even more convenient. Individual certification as a “certified renovator” is automatic upon completion of training, at no additional charge. This certification is valid anywhere in the country. As state and tribal programs become authorized, the Agency will work closely with certified renovators and the authorized state or tribe to ensure a smooth transition.
Both individuals and contracting firms must be certified. Firm certification is straightforward – just complete a short application, and submit it with fee to EPA. The application is now posted at www.epa.gov/lead/pubs/firmapp.pdf. The agency will process applications in the order that they are received.
If you have questions about the RRP rule or the certification process, you can visit EPA’s web site at www.epa.gov/lead or call the National Lead Information Center (NLIC) at 1-800-424-LEAD [5323].