BX ONLINE NEWSLETTER WEEK OF JULY 07, 2010

EPA extends RRP certification deadline
by KEITH BAUM and RYAN LEONARDO (Jendco Safety Supply)

On Earth Day 2010, the EPA Renovation, Repair and Painting (RRP) regulation took effect.  This federal regulation is to protect children from the short and long term effects of lead poisoning.  Contractors working in residential-type construction built before 1978 will be required to protect the interior and exterior of the home from lead paint contamination. 

The regulation is already affecting contractors in many trades including remodeling, plumbing, HVAC and painting because they have to incorporate the increased cost to the job. Contractors must use plastic sheeting, critical HEPA vacuums, warning signs and other precautions to reduce the overall contamination caused by disturbing lead paint.

An update on the RRP law was released on June 18, 2010 in Washington, D.C.  It revealed that the EPA is offering additional time for contractors to get trained and certified.  Contractors and firms must be enrolled no later than Oct. 1 and complete the certification course by Dec. 30, 2010. 

Although the EPA has extended the timeline for training, they reiterate that lead-safe practices are still required on a job, regardless of certification. It is a high-risk proposition to ignore the rule, with fines reaching more than $32,000 per day, per occurrence.  

With an increasing number of training facilities originating nationwide, combined with the extended time to get certified, the EPA is leaving no room for excuses.  This law has been in the works since 2008, and with the amendments to the RRP law so far in 2010, it is obvious that it is here to stay.

For more information about products that can help you meet the new EPA guidelines, call Keith Baum at Jendco Safety Supply, 614/449-9600.

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