If you own property built before 1978, you must now hire a lead-safe contractor. Why? because unless you have a certificate that says your house has no lead in it any renovation or work must be done following the RRP Law.
Common renovation activities like sanding, cutting, and demolition can create hazardous lead dust and chips by disturbing lead-based paint, which can be harmful to adults and children.
Beginning April 22, 2010, contractors, plumbers, electricans, painters etc… 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.
EPA requires that firms performing renovation, repair, and painting projects that disturb lead-based paint in pre-1978 homes, child care facilities and schools be certified by EPA and that they use certified renovators who are trained by EPA-approved training providers to follow lead-safe work practices.
A Lead Safe Renovator Contractor may perform repair, renovation or painting work on your home or facility which may include “low risk” or “moderate risk” deleading.
The Lead Safe Renovator Contractor license is different from a general contractor’s license. In Mass the Division of Occupational Safety is in charge of the Mass RRP Lead Law. To verify a contractors Mass lead license click here. If they say they are insured make sure you call the agent and confirm that the premiums have been paid and the coverage is in effect for the stated date. We cannot afford to trust a pretty face or take someone's word anymore without also being prudent.
Homes and other structures built before 1978 may contain lead paint. If your contractor does not follow lead-safe work practices in carrying out work that disturbs lead paint, lead containing dust may be produced. Exposure to lead dust has been shown to be a significant health hazard for both children and adults.
In Massachusetts, enforcement of EPA's Renovation Repair and Painting Rule has been delegated to the Department of Labor Standards (DLS). DLS' Lead-Sate Renovation regulations (454 CMR 22.00) apply to anyone who is paid to do work that disturbs more than threshold quantities of paint in or on homes, schools or childcare facilities.
This group includes:
• Painters
• Renovation and remodeling contractors
• Electricians
• Plumbers
• Maintenance workers
• Landlords
To request a Renovate Right Pamphlete outlining important Lead Hazard information for families, child care providers and schools. Or for more information about how RRP might effect your home please call Craig a 781-826-2577
Monday, July 11, 2011
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