The EPA has issued a lead paint ruling specifying that any company performing renovations or repairs in homes or buildings built before 1978 that are occupied by children or a pregnant woman must be certified in lead renovation. Any contractor completing a renovation, repair, or painting project which disturbs more than six sq. ft. of space on an interior wall or 20 sq. ft. of space on an exterior wall must comply with the rule. Uncertified companies who provide these services are in danger of receiving up to $32,500 in penalties per violation per day.

CEDIA, in cooperation with EPA-accredited training providers, is making it simple and cost effective for you and your company to take the first step in becoming an EPA Certified Lead Renovator and certified renovation firm by hosting a two-part Certified Lead Renovator course.
The first portion of the course is offered online and can be taken at your convenience. The online course covers the health problems associated with lead paint, how this ruling affects your work and how to safely work in a home with lead-based paint. The online portion must be completed before you can take the second hands-on lab portion.

The hands-on lab will be held at various ADI locations across the country. Participants will demonstrate the skills they learned though the online course. In addition they will learn how to train the other people they work with. At the conclusion of the second portion an assessment is administered, participants must score 80% or higher to become a certified lead renovator. Firms seeking accreditation must submit an application to the EPA. Both individuals and companies performing this kind of work must be certified in lead renovation to avoid hefty fines.

For more information on the EPA’s ruling or Certified Lead Renovator course offerings hosted by CEDIA, visit www.cedia.org/lead.