Lead paint poisoning is often considered an issue that was eradicated years ago. However, recent studies on child lead levels have shown that despite increased efforts by contractors to follow lead safe practices, children residing in homes under renovation are 30% more likely to have an unsafe level of lead in their blood than those in homes that were not under renovation. Even basic renovation or repair work being performed by contractors including plumbers, electricians, and window replacement specialists can lead to invisible, harmful dust from disturbing lead paint.

 

To work towards completely eliminating the hazardous effects lead poisoning can have, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has issued a new certification required for all contractors, renovators, and painters who work in pre-1978 homes and/or child-occupied facilities. For EPA lead certification, companies must register and pay a fee with EPA, and individuals must take a one-day lead safety training course approved by the EPA to become a certified renovator. The EPA lead certification is good for five years.

 

The Lead Based Paint Renovation Repair and Painting Program (RRP) involves pre-renovation and work practice requirements in addition to the firm and individual certification. Contractors, property managers, and other renovation workers must distribute a lead pamphlet from the EPA describing the hazards of lead before starting renovation work. The required EPA pamphlet is titled Lead Safe Certified Guide to Renovate Right, and the EPA mandates that the renovation contractor or worker must keep record of the tenant or owner's receipt of the pamphlet.

 

During renovation, lead-safe work practices must be followed, including work-area containment to prevent lead paint dust and debris, and minimizing exposure to lead paint hazards by thoroughly cleaning the site after project completion. These lead safe steps must be verified by an individual who has received the EPA individual renovator certification.