The Environmental Protection Agency’s Lead Renovation, Repair and Painting Rule requires that any contractor performing work on pre-1978 residences or child-occupied facilities, such as schools and daycares, must obtain EPA Firm Certification. The 8 hour training course is a mandatory pre-requisite for any company or individual applying for Firm Certification, and is also required for landlords, property managers, and anyone performing federally funded renovation work.
While most enforcement actions have taken place downstate, the EPA has started paying closer attention to rural communities in New York. Many upstate cities, such as Albany and Schenectady, now require proof of RRP Certification prior to issuing building permits for pre-1978 properties. The EPA is also encouraging rural building inspectors to begin enforcing the rule, and some small municipalities have passed local laws allowing for local fines for failure to comply with the RRP Rule.
Michelle DeGarmo, President of Flatley Read, LLC, has been training contractors in lead based paint safety and regulation compliance since 2000. RRP Training is held twice a month in Schuylerville and Watervliet, and independent classes can be scheduled for groups of six or more. Class size is limited, so registration is required and calling ahead for availability is strongly encouraged.
For information on upcoming classes, check our class calendar, or call 518-577-5681.