Lead Alert!

Lead Timelines

On April 22, 2010, new Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Lead-Based Renovation, Repair and Paint regulations came into effect. These new rules require that lead removal work be performed by an individual who has been trained and is either certified or supervised by someone who is, i.e., an abatement company.  The United States banned the use of lead based paint in 1978 but like asbestos, lead continues to be used in materials manufactured in other countries.  Lead paint supplies were also used after the ban went into effect.  Because of these reasons, you may find lead based paint in homes built or renovated after 1978.

What is required under the new laws?

Property owners, managers and contractors are already required to use lead safe work practices to protect occupants against exposure as of a result of Senate Bill (SB) 460 enacted by the State Legislature in 2002.  It also prohibits anyone from disturbing more than a minor amount of lead-based paint without “containment”, a system, process or barrier used to contain lead hazards inside a work area and certified technicians with a DHS 40 hour supervisor supervising. The purpose of these laws is to ensure that the work that disturbs lead-based paint is done in a way that does not create a hazard and that no hazards are left behind, i.e., proper packaging and disposal of removed material.  Anyone who performs renovation work for compensation and who disturbs paint in housing and child-occupied facilities built before 1978 must follow these new guidelines.

Violations

While the EPA’s initial interest is ensuring that training takes place, penalties for not complying with the lead safety requirements are costly at $32,500 per violation, per day.

How the JM team can help?

JM Environmental has been removing hazardous materials from structures in the greater Sacramento area and Northern California for over 17 years.  If you are concerned about lead contamination in your home or business, call now.

For more information about lead click on the following link:

http://www.epa.gov/lead/