What Home Owners Need to Know About Lead Paint

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's Lead: Renovation, Repair and Painting rule governing the work of professional remodelers in homes where there is lead-based paint was published in the Federal Register on Earth Day, April 22. The rule took effect in April 2010.

The rule addresses remodeling and renovation projects disturbing more than six square feet of potentially contaminated painted surfaces for all residential and multifamily structures built prior to 1978 that are inhabited or frequented by pregnant women and children under the age of six.

The EPA rule lists prohibited work practices - including open-torch burning and using high-heat guns and high-speed equipment such as grinders and sanders unless equipped with a HEPA filter. It also requires a cleaning inspection after the work is completed. Additionally, the rule establishes required lead-safe work practices, including posting warning signs for occupants and visitors; using disposable plastic drop cloths; and cleaning the work area with HEPA vacuuming and wet washing.The full rule and brochures for consumers can be downloaded from the EPA's www.epa.gov website.

All remodeling firms working in pre-1978 homes will need to be certified by EPA. In addition to firm certification, an employee will also need to be a Certified Renovator. When hiring a remodeler, home owners should verify the firm is certified and employs a Certified Renovator to be sure the work is completed properly.

A 2006 National Association of Home Builders study on lead-safe work practices showed that a home was better off after a remodel than before, as long as the work was performed by trained remodelers who clean the work area with HEPA-equipped vacuums, wet washing and disposable drop cloths.

The Builders Association of Eastern Connecticut will be hosting an EPA Renovation, Repair and Painting training for contractors in the Norwich area from 8 a.m. to 5 pm. on Wednesday, July 7.  The cost for BAEC members is $200 and $225 for nonmembers.