EPA authorizes Rhode Island to enforce Lead Renovation Program
BOSTON - Rhode Island became the first New England state to receive authorization to administer and enforce EPA’s Lead Renovation Program (RRP).

The program mandates that anyone receiving compensation for renovating, repairing and painting work in homes and child-occupied facilities built before 1978 be trained and certified in lead-safe work practices by the state of Rhode Island. The Rhode Island program will operate in lieu of EPA’s new RRP requirements that went into effect on April 22. EPA said this will allow for greater local oversight.

“Because we have so much older housing stock here in New England, protecting kids from exposure to lead-based paint is one of the most important things we can do,” said Curt Spalding, regional administrator for EPA’s New England regional office. “Lead exposure is entirely preventable, and can cause permanent, serious, life-long problems. This rule is the next step in EPA’s goal to protect children from the hazards of lead-based paint.”

The RRP program mandates that contractors, property managers and others working for compensation, in homes and child-occupied facilities built before 1978, must be trained and use lead-safe work practices. They are also required to provide the lead pamphlet “Renovate Right: Important Lead Hazard Information for Families, Child Care Providers and Schools” to owners and occupants before starting renovation work.

Additional information about EPA’s lead program is available by clicking here or by contacting the National Lead Information Center at 800-424-5323.

For more information about the new Rhode Island Program or to find a list of licensed lead hazard control firm, phone (401) 222-5960 or click here.



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