The new EPA Renovate, Repair and Painting Rule requires that both contractors and sub-contractors become certified. Many contractors think this won't affect sub-contractors, however it does.
First, the firm must fill out the application to become a certified firm. The fee for this certification is $300.00 and is good for five years. Secondly the sub-contractor must have a certified renovator on the job if their work disturbs more than 6 square feet of painted surface.( EPA Lead Paint renovation firm application.pdf )
The challenge facing remodelers and general contractors is that they will be responsible for all work on their project. In the event their subs fail to use lead safe practices the remodeler will be accountable. The liability risk is too great to not require that the subs have Certified Renovator Training.
In our training on Wednesday the EPA Certified Trainer indicated that we should let all our sub-contractors know of this requirement and encourage them to obtain the necessary certification and training.
The Contractor Coaching Partnership has two upcoming EPA RRP Training dates, In Westborough Mass on 2/8/2010 and in Taunton Mass 2/12/2010 hosted by National Lumber.
There is a lot of confusion in and around this industry changing regulation. We will continue to provide the most current information as it becomes available. We are in touch with the EPA on a regular basis and at our recent training met some of the Massachusetts Division of Occupational Safety officials who are taking a strong interest in helping the EPA enforce the regulation throughout the state. It has been mentioned that the state of Mass may eventually take over the program and administer from here in the state. Some states are considering this to keep control locally.
Stay tuned for more information. Sign up for this blog and you will be notified whenever we post information and news regarding the EPA RRP.
Meanwhile let all your subs know that you will need them to become certified to work on your projects.
