EPA LEAD PAINT RULE ENFORCEMENT DELAYED
The Environmental Protection Agency announced on June 18 that it would delay enforcement of its Lead Renovation, Repair and Painting rule. The rule went into effect on April 22, but the EPA will delay enforcement of the rule until this fall, which will provide wood flooring contractors, and the companies they work for, with more time to become certified in lead-safe removal practices as required by the EPA.
The new law requires contractors working in homes or child-occupied facilities (schools, daycares, etc.) built before 1978 to become certified in lead-safe work practices by attending an EPA-accredited training program. Contractors now have until September 30 to register to become certified, and firms have until October 1. Contractors must complete their certification training by December 31. During this interim period, all contractors and firms must continue to implement lead-safe work practices. For more information, visit the EPA’s web site at www.epa.gov/lead/pubs/renovation.htm.