New Federal Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) guidelines for lead paint take effect today, which just happens to be Earth Day.   These new guidelines require contractors involved in the removal of lead based materials to be certified and follow stringent work practices to prevent lead contamination.

This new regulation will apply to all contractors performing renovation, repair and painting projects in target projects constructed prior to 1978, when the federal government banned the use of lead-based paint.  Failure to follow these new guidelines will result in fines of up to $37,300 and or jail time. Target projects are those that involve any renovation, removal or repair of painting projects in homes, child care facilities and schools built before 1978.  The EPA is expecting that more that 125,000 contractors will enroll and become certified in lead safe practices this week alone.  This one day course at a cost of $300 dollars has it’s equal share of fans and critics.  

While the EPA might not be bleeding edge on environmental concerns, many vocal participants in  the construction field have voiced their complaints from the cost of the classes, increased regulations, and the issue that new regulations will increase the cost of lead paint removals for consumers, thus reducing their job prospect's.  

The removal of lead materials is known to increase exposure to lead contaminated dust, which is associated with developmental and behavior problems in children as well as high blood pressure and hypertension in adults, among other associated physical and environmental risks. So, I don’t why this minimal cost of training is a concern considering the health risks to homeowners and construction employees to warrant negative feedback.  

Disposal of these materials is a whole other issue.  Where we live, we are fortunate to have a local drop off location for hazardous waste, which will also supply you with materials to package waste free of charge, ensuring that this waste doesn’t enter the local landfill.  I’m not sure how it works in other communities, but would love your input.  Looking forward to reading your comments.