21st Century Environmental Solutions – Dintl.org

New law Does require contractors to take special precautions for Lead paint

Under a new federal law that took effect Thursday, taking  precautions when it comes to lead paint will no longer be optional.

The law requires all the nation’s remodeling contractors — including painters, carpenters and electricians — to use specific techniques to contain lead dust, special HEPA vacuums to clean up and to verify that the dust is gone before they finish the job.

That means sealing off the work area with plastic, using a vacuum with a HEPA filter that can capture the finest particles, verifying that surfaces are clean upon completion — and documenting the practices.

The law is a major upset for the remodeling industry because it requires training and licensing and per-job expenses ranging from an estimated $200 up to $1,000.

The Construction Contractors Board has 11 field investigators charged with enforcing the new law, which carries a potential fine of $5,000 per violation.

The contractors who have filed by April 22 will have their paperwork by June.

As of April 22, 2010, federal law requires that:

• Renovation firms be certified under EPA’s Renovation, Repair and Painting Rule
• Individuals be trained in lead-safe work practices
• Training providers be accredited by EPA.