Environmental Protection Agency Lead Based Paint Renovation Rule
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has implemented the Lead-Based Paint Renovation, Repair and Painting (RRP) Rule to ensure the safety of the public and the environment from lead-based paint hazards during renovation, repair, or painting activities in homes built before 1978. This rule applies to any work that disturbs more than 6 square feet of lead-based paint on the interior or 20 square feet on the exterior of a building.
Why is Lead-Based Paint Dangerous?
Lead-based paint is dangerous because it can cause lead poisoning, especially in children under the age of 6. Lead poisoning can cause developmental delays, learning disabilities, and behavioral problems. It can also lead to seizures, coma, and even death in extreme cases. Lead-based paint can be found in homes built before 1978, and it can be present in paint, dust, and soil.
What is the Purpose of the RRP Rule?
The purpose of the RRP Rule is to ensure that contractors, renovators, and painters who work in pre-1978 homes are trained and certified in lead-safe work practices. This includes using lead-safe work practices to minimize the amount of dust and debris created during renovation, repair, or painting activities. The RRP Rule also requires that firms be certified by the EPA and that they use lead-safe work practices during renovation, repair, or painting activities.
Who Must Comply with the RRP Rule?
The RRP Rule applies to anyone who is paid to perform renovation, repair, or painting activities in pre-1978 homes, including:
- Contractors
- Renovators
- Painters
- Plumbers
- Electricians
- HVAC technicians
Homeowners who perform renovation, repair, or painting activities in their own home are not required to be certified or to use lead-safe work practices, but they are encouraged to do so.
What are the Requirements of the RRP Rule?
The RRP Rule requires that contractors and firms be certified by the EPA and that they use lead-safe work practices during renovation, repair, or painting activities. This includes:
- Providing the owner and occupants with the EPA's lead pamphlet
- Containing the work area to prevent dust and debris from spreading
- Minimizing dust and debris during the work
- Cleaning the work area thoroughly after the work is completed
- Conducting a visual inspection to ensure that all surfaces are clean and free of debris
What are the Penalties for Non-Compliance?
Non-compliance with the RRP Rule can result in fines of up to $37,500 per violation, per day. In addition, contractors who violate the RRP Rule may be required to pay for the cost of the cleanup and may face legal action from the EPA or from the homeowner.
Conclusion
The RRP Rule is an important regulation that protects the public and the environment from lead-based paint hazards during renovation, repair, or painting activities. Contractors, renovators, and painters who work in pre-1978 homes must be certified by the EPA and must use lead-safe work practices to minimize the amount of dust and debris created during these activities. Homeowners who perform renovation, repair, or painting activities in their own home are encouraged to use lead-safe work practices as well.