New Lead Based Paint Certification
New rules will take effect for contractors and landlords who perform repairs, or renovations to structures built prior to 1978. The EPA now requires that the contractors need to take a training course to learn how to work with lead based paint and be certified in it’s proper removal. Since 1978 lead based paints are no longer used in residential markets.
The lead can remain undisturbed if wall-papered over or painted over. An exception to the new ruling might be to test for lead and then paint over it; once determined that the level of lead that is present is safe. Paint that is undisturbed will not have to be performed by a certified contractor and the new ruling wouldn’t be applicable.
Any renovation activity in an area that is 6 sq. ft. on the inside and 20 sq. ft. on the outside will be affected by this new ruling. It will also apply to window replacement and will include landlords who do their own renovations. Any disturbance of the surfaces that have paint on them prior to 1978 are affected by this ruling.
Here are some sites that can give you information on the harmful effects of lead based paints and their remedies: www.epa.gov/lead
http://www.hud.gov/offices/lead/enforcement/disclosure.cfm
http://www.commerce.wa.gov/site/515/default.aspx
Mailing Address:
Department of Commerce
Lead-Based Paint Program
PO Box 42525
Olympia, WA 98504-2525
Contact Information:
General Email
Lead Line Phone: (360) 586-LEAD (5323)
Fax: (360) 586-5880
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