On April 22, 2008, the EPA issued a rule requiring the use of lead-safe practices and other actions aimed at preventing lead poisoning. Under this rule, all personnel and contractors 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. This rule takes effect beginning April 22, 2010. Visit the EPA Lead Renovate, Repair and Repainting webpage or download the Renovator Compliance Guide for more details. The application for firms to submit to the EPA can be found online at http://www.epa.gov/lead/pubs/firmapp.pdf.

This rule effects anyone who receives any form of compensation (wages,pay,services in exchange for other goods or services, bartering, rents) to perform work that disturbs paint in housing and child - occupied facilities built before 1978, this may include, but is not limited to:

•Residential rental property owners/managers
•General contractors
•Home Improvement Contractors
•Landlords
•Property Managers
•Apartment Maintenance Staff
•Renovators
•Remodeling Contractors
•Electricians
•Plumbers
•Painters
•Carpenters
•Restoration Companies
•Anyone whose work disturbs paint or painted components

What Housing or Activities Are Excluded and Not Subject to the Rule?

•Housing built in 1978 or later.
•Housing for elderly disabled persons, unless children under 6 reside or are expected to reside there.
•0-bedroom dwellings(studio apartments, dormitories, etc).
•Housing or components declared lead-free by a certified inspector or risk assessor.
•Minor repair and maintenance activities that disturb 6 square feet or less of paint per room inside, or 20 square feet or less on the exterior of a home or building. (HUDS rules are diffrent)
•Minor repair and maintenence activities do not include window replacement and projects involving demolition or prohibited practices.

Contact Wendy at 303-329-3300 or email wendy@aamdhq.org for more information about this issue.