Get The Lead Out! Lead Based Paint Rules Are Now In Effect

As of April 22, 2010 regulations for lead based paint rules are now in practice.  They not only have to be disclosed but the person removing the paint has to be certified.  Many homes built prior to 1978 are now in need of renovations.  If that’s your house, be sure you know the rules and regulations that are now in effect. 

Many home build before 1978 use lead based paints.  It’s been proven that lead can cause serious health problems.  Children’s level of lead doses is high from the lead paint that is peeling, chipping, and cracking.  The lead content leads to high exposure in children because they lean, write, and even eat the paint that’s on the walls.  The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has developed guidelines and certifications that are required for renovation work done on houses that contain lead base paints.  

Renovations such as sanding or cutting the surface of lead paint walls creates lead dust and chips that are harmful to everyone within breathing distance.  Contractors must follow the lead safe guidelines and must be certified before removing lead painted walls.  Whether they are a contractor company or a contracted person they must follow the guidelines.  Even if your house is just a rental you must have a lead based paint hazard sticker before any contraction has began. 

Prior to this year a pamphlet was required in the sale or lease of houses built before 1978 titled “Protect Your Family from Lead in Your Home” issued by the EPA.   Another pamphlet issued by the EPA titled “Renovate Right” is required before any renovations are done.  Renovators including housing managers are required to retain this pamphlet for three years. 

With the new EPA law in effect renovators must be certified and their employees trained in lead safe work practices. An eight hour course is required from an EPA accredited trainer to receive certification and is good for five years.  Any contractor whether a company or handyman must have this certification before any work is done on lead based paint.

Property managers are also required to hold certifications if they perform the actual renovation work.  If not, they should make sure the contractor they hire has the proper certifications.  They are also required to show all lead based paint disclosures to tenants and other management personnel. 

All individuals who perform any work relating to lead based paint removal, no matter if it’s a cleaning or removal, must be done by a certified renovator and know the lead safe working practices.  These include work area containment; work practices prohibition such as open flames and clean up procedures of lead based paint.  They also must insure the pamphlet “Renovate Right” is provided to all involved with the renovations.  All required record keeping must also be met. 

It is now a requirement for all lead based paint removal to be certified and follow work safety procedures when dealing with lead based paints.  Be sure you know the rules are regulations before starting any lead paint renovations.