The word just doesn’t seem to be getting out about the new EPA Lead Renovation, Repair and Painting Regulation.
Virtually every organization I chat with about it, whether they are property owners or contractors, just shake their heads on the rare occassion when they know about it. We’re feeling a little like a one-man band on this issue but because lead poisoning is such an enormous public health issue, we’ve not giving up on getting the word out!
The new regulation takes place April 22, 2010 and the EPA estimates that over 250,000 individuals will need to be trained. Thus far, the EPA has only approved 35 training providers nationwide including RGA. The eight hour class covers topics such as tenant notification, conducting lead paint surveys, proper work practices, clean-up, recordkeeping and on-the-job training. There is also a 2 hour hands-on component. The regulation is currently only applicable to pre-1978 housing that is occupied by children under the age of six or a pregnant woman but the EPA is considering making it applicable to any building constructed prior to 1978 which is when lead paint was banned.
JoAnn Copperud, CEO – Emeryville, CA
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