Contractors Must Be Lead-Safe Certified
• How to become Lead-Safe Certified
• Find out about EPA-recognized test kits
• Find out if your state is operating the certification program instead of EPA
Cornerstone Training Institute is an accredited training provider.
Learn more about our Lead Renovation, Repair, and Painting schedule.
July 6, 2010 -- A rule that takes effect today will increase protections against lead-paint poisoning by eliminating the ability of owner-occupants of older housing to "opt-out" of having their contractors follow lead-safe work practices. Read the EPA press release.
Renovation firms and workers have additional time to obtain necessary training and certifications to comply with its new lead rules, EPA announced June 18, 2010. Read the enforcement guidance (PDF) and a set of frequent questions (PDF).
Why Do You Need to Be Concerned About Lead?
Lead interferes with a variety of body processes and is toxic to many organs and tissues including the heart, bones, intestines, kidneys, and reproductive and nervous systems.
It can impede the development of the nervous system and is therefore particularly toxic to children, causing potentially permanent learning and behavior disorders. Symptoms include abdominal pain, headache, anemia, irritability, and in severe cases seizures, coma, and death.
Lead is a toxic metal that was used for many years in products found in and around our homes. Lead also can be emitted into the air from motor vehicles and industrial sources, and lead can enter drinking water from plumbing materials. Lead may cause a range of health effects, from behavioral problems and learning disabilities, to seizures and death. Children six years old and under are most at risk.
Most Common Sources of Lead Poisoning
• Deteriorating lead-based paint
• Lead contaminated dust
• Lead contaminated residential soil
More Lead Information provided by the EPA
• Basic Information Información Básica
• Where lead is likely to be a hazard
• How to check your family and home for lead
• What you can do to protect your family
• Are you planning to buy or rent a home built before 1978?
• Renovating, repairing or painting a home, child care facility or school with lead-based paint
• Where You Live - Get contacts for lead information in each EPA regional office.
• Renovation, Repair and Painting - Learn about EPA's lead-safety rules and lead-safe work practices.
• Lead Professionals - Read about EPA requirements for lead-based paint abatement for known hazards, inspection, and risk assessment.
• Grants - Read about EPA's grant programs to fund lead poisoning prevention activities in local communities and across the nation.
• Lead in the News - Read about recalls, lead in toys and children's jewelry and more.
• Rules and Regulations - Read about EPA regulations and policy guidance on lead abatement, cleanup, risk assessment, and remodeling and renovations.
• Resource Center - Access links to additional information sources on lead from other EPA offices and organizations involved in efforts to reduce lead exposure.
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