LEAD PAINT DEADLINE DELAYED
by Jeff Lugar, Chairman NCBIA Remodelers
On June 18, 2010 the U.S. EPA issued a memorandum announcing a delay in some of the requirements related to the Lead Paint Rule. The following information was taken from that memorandum:
Since the RRP Rule became effective on April 22, 2010, concerns have been raised by the regulated community regarding difficulties experienced in obtaining the rule required firm certification and renovation worker training.
Acknowledging those concerns and to facilitate the transition to full implementation of the RRP Rule, EPA will offer additional and sufficient time for renovation firms and workers to obtain the necessary training and certifications to comply as follows:
•· Until October 1, 2010, EPA will not take enforcement action for violations of the RRP Rule’s firm certification requirement.
•· For violations of the RRP Rule’s renovation worker certification requirement, EPA will not enforce against individual renovation workers if the person has applied to enroll in, or has enrolled in, by not later than September 30, 2010, a certified renovator class to train contractors in practices necessary for compliance with the final rules. Renovators must complete the training by December 31, 2010.
In view of the paramount importance of ensuring that all contractors follow the lead-safe work practices in the RRP rule, EPA will continue to enforce the work practice requirements in the rule which protect children and reduce lead exposure.
This extension allows firms and workers more time to get their certifications, however the RRP rule is in effect now, and the EPA will enforce safe practices. For those workers and firms who have not received certification, you will still be expected to know the safe practices and adhere to them.
In view of the paramount importance of ensuring that all contractors follow the lead-safe work practices in the RRP rule, EPA will continue to enforce the work practice requirements in the rule which protect children and reduce lead exposure.
