Will the EPA's new regulation impact you?
On April 22, 2010, EPA is implementing a rule that requires anyone performing renovation, repair, and painting projects that disturb lead-based paint in pre-1978 homes, child care facilities and schools follow lead-safe work practices.
EPA Requirements
Common renovation activities like sanding, cutting, and demolition can create hazardous lead dust and chips by disturbing lead-based paint, which can be harmful to adults and children.
To protect against this risk, on April 22, 2008, EPA issued a rule requiring the use of lead-safe practices and other actions aimed at preventing lead poisoning. Under the rule, beginning in April 2010, contractors performing renovation, repair and painting projects that disturb lead-based paint in homes, child care facilities, and schools built before 1978 must be certified and must follow specific work practices to prevent lead contamination.
Until that time, EPA recommends that anyone performing renovation, repair, and painting projects that disturb lead-based paint in pre-1978 homes, child care facilities and schools follow lead-safe work practices.
Click here to view the full article from the EPA
How do I calculate the area of the paint that is affected for purposes of the minor repair and maintenance provision?
Example from the EPA's FAQ section: As a floor covering installer I use an undercut saw to remove a small amount of wood at the bottom of baseboards and door casings. I am only disturbing the paint in the 1/8 inch cut of the blade.
Answer: A job is considered minor repair and maintenance, rather than a renovation covered by the RRP Rule, if it disrupts 6 square feet or less of painted surface per room in a 30 day period. Calculate the area of painted surface disrupted based on the surface area of the component that is disrupted. For example, cutting a 1-inch strip off a door that is 36 inches wide would disrupt 36 square inches of painted surface, regardless of the width of the cut made by the saw blade.
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Disclaimer: Dr. Cheung/ OEM Advisor, LLC. makes every effort to verify the facts, findings and references that are posted, but the accuracy and completeness of the information, and of any statements or opinions based thereon, are not guaranteed. The reader assumes all risks in using information posted or archived.
Furthermore, this message is for informational purposes only and may not be appropriate to your individual situation. As the science, knowledge and regulations is evolving, you should monitor the various available resources noted previously to keep you updated. Please contact your occupational medicine or public health professionals.