FLASH! EPA Delays RRP (Lead Paint) Rule

This just in from the National Kitchen & Bath Association:
June 18, 2010: NKBA just learned that the Environmental Protection Agency has decided to delay enforcement of the Lead Renovation, Repair and Painting Rule until October 1, 2010.

Acknowledging the need for additional time to enable firms and contractors to become trained and certified in compliance with the April 22 rule, the Agency has agreed to delay any enforcement actions.

The EPA will not take any enforcement action for violations of the Rule’s firm certification requirement until October 1, 2010.

The EPA also will not take any enforcement action against individual renovation workers if the person has applied to enroll in, or has enrolled in, by no later than September 30, 2010, a certified renovator class to train contractors in practices necessary for compliance with the final rules. The training must be completed by December 31, 2010.

To read a copy of the EPA’s announcement, click Here.

This is good news for contractors and painters because many have not been able to get the training needed to become certified. The delay will give them time to do so.

Peggy

Addendum from Qualified Remodeler Magazine:
 
The EPA asserted that enforcement would continue on work practice standards whether a firm was certified or not.

In a FAQ posted on the EPA’s Web site, the agency issued a clarification to its initial announcement, which was misinterpreted by many to mean that all enforcement was to be postponed. The EPA reiterated that it was not stopping enforcement of work practice standards and record-keeping requirements. Whether or not a firm is certified, the EPA still expects it to adhere to the lead-safe practices outlined in its RRP ruling.

The EPA also withdrew the "OPT-out Provision" that allowed homeowners without pregnant women and children under six to opt out of the extra measures to protect from lead paint contamination when remodeling their pre-1978 homes. All remodels must now conform to the Renovation, Repair and Painting Rule.

A number of Housing Industry Groups plan to file suit over the change.

Peggy