Lead-based paint was used in more than 38 million homes and businesses until it was banned for residential use in 1978. As of April 2010, EPA federal law requires contractors that disturb lead-based paint in homes, businesses, and schools to be certified and follow specific work practices to prevent lead contamination. This law will only apply to buildings which were constructed before 1978.
Any home built prior to 1978, Floyd will have to test for lead. This test is required by law. The good news is even though it was banned in 1978, they started to phase out lead based prior many years prior to that. Floyd is a Lead Safe Certified Firm. Our Lead Installer is also Lead Certified. Rest assured, we have you covered!
What are the health risks to kids?
Lead is VERY hazardous to children.
- Damages the brain and central nervous system; can cause decreased intelligence, reading and learning difficulties, behavioral problems, and hyperactivity.
- Damage can be irreversible, affecting children throughout their lives.
Lead is hazardous to pregnant women.
- Damage to the fetus.
Lead is also hazardous to workers and other adults.
- High blood pressure
- Physical fatigue
- Lead exposure causes permanent damage
For additional information about the sources and hazards of lead, please visit http://www.epa.gov/lead/.
“RRP Rule”
The Renovation, Repair, and Painting Final Rule
It requires:
- Renovators to be certified through training
- Firms to be certified
- Training providers to be accredited
- Lead-safe work practices to be implemented during renovations
- Pre-renovation education in target housing and child-occupied facilities
- On or after April 22, 2010, firms working in pre-1978 homes and child-occupied facilities must be certified and use lead-safe work practices during renovation
EPA’s RRP website (www.epa.gov/lead/pubs/renovation.htm) has more information on the rule.
Why So Strict With Windows?
- Windows are the single largest source of lead dust in any home (EPA Statistics). Because windows “slide” to open and most often need to be “torn-out” to be replaced, they raise the most dust per sqft of all renovation (HUD Claim)
If your home was built prior to 1978
We are required, by law, to test your home for lead prior to performing any renovation work. The lead test is very quick and simple. Any contractor that will work on your home that is NOT an EPA Certified Renovator is breaking the law and endangering you and your family. Be sure you choose only Certified Renovators if your home was constructed prior to 1978. Violation of this law carries penalties of up to $37,500 per violation per day with possible imprisonment.
