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Lead Abatement

Lead Abatement and Lead-Safe Work Practices (RRP)

Lead Abatement is often confused with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Lead Safe Renovation, Repair and Painting (RRP) rules. Even though there is some overlap between the work-practices used, there are some key differences.

The differences are simple and the vast majority of renovations do not require the full abatement certification or procedures.

Lead Abatement

The primary purpose of the job is to deal with specific lead hazards.
The appearance of the job is secondary or not considered at all.
The project is designed first and foremost to eliminate lead-paint.
They are often required by either a state / local government agency because a child has been lead-poisoned in the home.
Frequently, there is some sort of rental or housing subsidy in the property (i.e. HUD, Section 8, Local Housing Authority, etc.) and a child has been lead-poisoned.
All workers must have a three-day certification class and renewed annually.
There must be a supervisor with a five-day certification class also renewed annually on the job-site during the entire project.
Typically, a licensed Lead Inspector or Risk Assessor is involved prior to the start of the job.
A third-party Clearance Exam or Test will be performed by either an Inspector or Risk Assessor after the job is complete.
Notification must be provided to either the EPA or State 10 days prior to beginning a job.

Lead Safety for Renovation, Repair & Painting (RRP) aka Lead-Safe Work-Practices (RRP)

Virtually ALL work that may disturb painted, stained or finished surfaces in pre-1978 buildings.
The primary purpose of the job is to improve the appearance, functionality, serviceability, resale value, update, modernize or simply make more usable. This could include virtually any remodeling project, renovations, repairs, maintenance or repainting in most buildings built before 1978.
Some examples of jobs that may require RRP Certification
- Additions
- General Remodeling including Kitchens, Bathrooms, Painting, etc.
- Hardwood Floor Refinishing
- Re-siding
- Gutters
- Window & Door Replacement
- Water Damage Restoration
- Fire & Smoke Restoration
All work or bids on work in Pre-1978 Buildings must be done by a Lead Certified Firm and the project overseen by a Lead Certified Renovator and trained workers.

How to get Lead Certified

There are two steps to becoming EPA RRP Lead Paint Certified:

Attend a One Day, Lead Paint Certification Class in Lead Safe Work-Practices. Upon completion you, and any other of your team who attend, will be Lead Certified Renovators.
Register your company, firm or organization as a Lead Certified Firm. You will receive the application in your class.