Is a home remodel or renovation project in your future? If yes, you should consider the year your home was built before getting started.
In 1978, the federal government banned lead-based paints. Lead is a toxic metal that when disturbed can cause harmful effects, especially in children. Routine opening and closing of windows and doors, or from an inside home remodel or renovation, can loosen lead-based paint causing paint chips to detach and dust to be released into the air. Young children crawl and play on the floor and are prone to putting their hands and toys in their mouths. Because the dust settles on the floor and other objects in the home, they run a higher risk of ingesting lead and becoming poisoned.
The federal Renovation, Repair and Painting (RRP) Rule was established by the EPA in 2010 in an effort to protect occupants from lead contamination generated during work conducted in homes built prior to 1978. The regulation requires individuals hired to perform such work be certified and trained in the use of lead-safe work practices. Painters, carpenters, electricians, plumbers and other tradesmen must comply with this regulation, as must landlords who perform work on their rental dwellings if built prior to 1978. Property owners should ask to see a contractor’s RRP certification before allowing the individual to begin work.
Although current regulations do not apply to homeowners who choose to conduct renovations themselves on a dwelling they reside in, it is highly recommended they learn about and follow lead-safe work practices to protect themselves and their family. Failure to use lead-safe practices when doing renovations, such as window replacement, electrical work or a kitchen/bathroom remodel, can release harmful lead-contaminated dust and paint chips inside the home. Renovation work should be done safely to alleviate health risks to occupants.
For detailed information on the Renovation, Repair and Painting rule, or to learn how to set up safely, control the dust and clean up completely to protect your family during a self-home renovation, repair or paint project, visit https://www.epa.gov/.../lead-renovation-repair-and... or call the Cayuga County Health Department at (315) 253-1560.
Original source can be found here.
Alerts Sign-up