Copyright American Society of Safety Engineers May 2008To further protect children from exposure to lead-based paint, EPA is issuing new rules for contractors who renovate or repair housing, childcare facilities or schools built before 1978. Under the new rules, workers must follow lead-safe work practice standards to reduce potential exposure to dangerous levels of lead during renovation and repair activities.
The Lead: Renovation, Repair and Painting Program rule, which will take effect in April 2010, prohibits work practices that create lead hazards. Requirements include implementing lead-safe work practices and certification and training for paid contractors and maintenance professionals working in pre-1978 housing, child-care facilities and schools.
The rule covers all rental housing and nonrental homes where children under age 6 and pregnant mothers reside. The new requirements apply to renovation, repair or painting activities where more than 6 square ft of lead-based paint is disturbed in a room or where 20 square ft of lead-based paint is disturbed on the exterior. Affected contractors include builders, painters, plumbers and electricians. Trained contractors must post warning signs, restrict occupants from work areas, contain work areas to prevent dust and debris from spreading, conduct a thorough cleanup and verify that cleanup was effective.
For more information or to obtain copies of the rule, visit www.epa.gov/lead.
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