Lead Training
About the Renovation, Repair and Painting Rule
A new Federal regulation called the Renovation, Repair, and Painting Rule ( RRP ) will go into effect in April 2010. It requires contractors, property owners, and managers who work in pre-1978 housing and who might disturb paint surfaces to become Lead Certified Renovators by taking a one day training course about using Lead Safe Work Practices on the job.
When lead paint is sanded or scraped or disturbed, microscopic particles of metal mingle with the dust that is created. That lead-containing dust is what can hurt people, especially children and pregnant women. Lead is extremely toxic and causes a long list of problems, including learning and behavioral problems, kidney disease, high blood pressure, miscarriage and birth defects. Since there is no cure for lead poisoning, prevention is the key.
The rule applies to jobs in pre-1978 housing (i.e. "Target Housing") and child occupied facilities where lead paint covers more than 6 square feet per room or 20 square feet outside will be disturbed by someone who is being compensated for their work.
The RRP rule covers millions of jobs: renovation, remodeling, painting, window replacement, plumbing, electrical work, heating and air conditioning, demolition, plus jobs performed by many other trades like carpenters, electricians, and handymen. The rule also applies to the people who work for rental property owners, schools, and day care providers. It also applies to non-profits and government agencies.