In older homes and child care centers, common renovation activities like sanding, cutting, and demolition can, by disturbing lead-based paint, create lead dust and chips which may be harmful to adults and children.

To protect against this risk, EPA issued a rule requiring the use of lead-safe work practices and other actions aimed at preventing lead poisoning from renovations.  Under the rule, beginning in April 2010, contractors and maintenance staff 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.

In this session, Cindy Wheeler from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency will provide specific details on:

·        who must be certified

·        how to get certified

·        which renovation projects are covered

·        the exception for minor maintenance

·        how to determine whether lead-based paint is present   

·        renovator responsibilities