Soon Contractors Will Need Certifications for Lead Removal
Lead based paint was popularly used for millions of homes until it was banned for residential usage in 1978. Studies have shown that lead can seriously affect the nervous system and brain of younger children, which can lead to behavioral problems and a reduced IQ, it has also been found to be harmful for adults. Recently a new EPA lead renovation rule for April 2010 has been made that will cause contractors to acquire lead removal certification.
Lead is usually found in the form of dust, which makes it almost invisible. Because of this, many people can become unknowingly exposed and affected by it. For this reason all renovators who are working in homes, schools, or child care facilities built before 1978 will have to make sure they contain the work area to prevent harmful dust from affecting the public. The amount of lead paint dust should also be minimized as much as possible. After the project is finished, the entire area will need to be cleaned thoroughly and pass a cleaning test.
All contractors working in homes built prior to 1978 will also need to be certified EPA renovators. They will have to follow EPA rules and safe lead work practices in order to prevent any contamination. All homeowners or resident will also need to be provided with documentation of safe lead work practices. This applies for most renovation activities like demolition, cutting, sanding or anything else that would disturb lead-based paint.
Contractors should visit the EPA website in order to get more information on this new rule. According to the EPA, lead renovation rule for April 2010 contractors will also need to conduct a final lead test. This means that after they are finished they will need to take a wipe sample or ‘white glove’ from the work area. If the area fails lead safe requirements then the area will need to be re-cleaned and retested. Home residents also have the power to vote for a post renovation test, this entails that the dust samples from the site will be sent to a lab to make sure that the lead amount complies with the threshold levels set by the EPA.