WASHINGTON — The
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency''s (EPA) new federal lead paint restriction goes into effect later this week and will affect many custodial and maintenance professionals, according to the
Post-Standard.
On April 22, which happens to be
Earth Day, the
"Renovate Right: EPA''s Lead-based Paint Renovation, Repair and Painting Program" becomes official and requires any cleaning and maintenance individuals working in properties built before 1978 to follow strict regulations to minimize risks to lead paint exposure, the story stated.
All companies working in properties containing lead paint must be certified by the EPA or face strict penalties of up to $32,500 per violation, per day, the story noted.
According to the story, the EPA certification necessary to avoid costly fines is roughly $300 per company and $150 per employee.
Mary Thompson, executive officer at the
Home Builders and Remodelers Association of Central New York, said: "Most companies are already practicing safe lead paint practices. The new regulations, though, come with such stiff penalties that companies may charge more for their work. The result will be more ''fly-by-night contractors'' who will not be certified in lead paint abatement and will try to undercut authentic contractors."
