Lead Certification
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has long made it a priority to reduce exposure to lead, especially for young children. Exposure to high levels of lead can be particularly damaging to children whose nervous systems are still developing and to pregnant women, whose unborn children are growing. Children with these high lead levels can suffer from nervous system damage, behavioral problems, learning problems, slowed growth, headaches and other debilitating conditions.
The Environmental Protection Agency has been working for three decades to reduce exposure to lead in lead paint, and since April 22, 2010, new federal laws require all contractors "performing renovation, repair or painting projects that disturb lead based paint... to be certified and to follow specific work practices to prevent lead contamination." The professionals at Badger Painting have taken the necessary steps to comply with the EPA's new regulations.
Contractors today must take numerous steps to guarantee that they are meeting these rigorous safety standards when working with lead paint in homes, business and other child related facilities. Thousands of workers performing renovations will have to be trained and certified as "renovators" by the EPA-accredited trainers. Paint professionals and other home improvement professionals will be trained in how to effectively protect household items and how to seal floor coverings from potential contamination while work is in progress. In addition, training will be given in how to use high-powered equipment while working with lead paint and how to contain the dust that accumulates during renovations.
The business or homeowner should ask prospective contractors about the status of their EPA licensing. The staff as Badger Painting can answer questions about the licensing procedures and the effects of lead paint. Also, because there is a high cost to become certified, some painting and service contractors may try to avoid the EPA regulations. Before hiring a paint contractor, do your homework.
