LEAD SAFETY

Did you know?

David is Lead-Safety Certified by the EPA. For more information regarding lead safety, contact David at 503.645.3763.

 

by David E. Benner

Below are the new EPA lead safety requirements that every homeowner should be aware of– especially those intending to remodel.

Dust generated by remodeling projects can create potential hazards. Dust from the renovation of a pre-1978 home can contain lead. To protect homeowners from this danger the EPA has created the Renovation, Repair and Painting Final Rule (40CFR745).

The new rule effective April 22, 2010 requires that renovations conducted for compensation, must be performed by “Certified Firms” using “Certified Renovators”. Renovators working on any home built before 1978 must complete a course and pass an exam given by an EPA accredited course. The course teaches a series of procedures and skill-sets that are implemented in work practices to minimize and contain the potentially hazardous lead dust.

“Certified Renovators” must provide the EPA produced “Renovate Right” pamphlet to owners prior to remodeling activities in pre-1978 homes. The renovator must also test for lead and document the findings.

While the procedures are not difficult to implement, they should be used to ensure the safety of every pre-1978 job site. If your home falls into this category, verify that your remodeler is certified.