![[logo] US EPA](http://www.epa.gov/epafiles/images/logo_epaseal.gif){kind=logo}
 |
Highlights
August 3, 2010 - The American Bird Conservancy, the Association of Avian Veterinarians, and a number of other groups submitted a petition to EPA under section 21 of the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) asking EPA to "prohibit the manufacture, processing, and distribution in commerce of lead for shot, bullets, and fishing sinkers." Read more
Massachusetts is now authorized to administer its own RRP program in lieu of EPA's program. Learn more.
Lead-Safe Renovation, Repairs and Painting
Lead-Safe Certified
-- How to become Lead-Safe Certified
-- Accredited training providers near you
-- Certified firms near you
-- Find out about EPA-recognized test kits
-- Find out if your state is operating the certification program instead of EPA
-- Answers to your questions, submit questions; printer friendly version (PDF) (73 pp, 229K, about PDF)
Compliance for Contractors,
New Rules
July 6, 2010 -- A rule that takes effect today will increase protections against lead-paint poisoning by eliminating the ability of owner-occupants of older housing to "opt-out" of having their contractors follow lead-safe work practices. Read the press release.
Renovation firms and workers have additional time to obtain necessary training and certifications to comply with its new lead rules, EPA announced June 18, 2010. Read the enforcement guidance (PDF) (2 pp, 476K, about PDF and a set of frequent questions (PDF) (3 pp, 31K, about PDF).
Why Do You Need to Be Concerned About Lead?
Lead is a toxic metal that was used for many years in products found in and around our homes. Lead also can be emitted into the air from motor vehicles and industrial sources, and lead can enter drinking water from plumbing materials. Lead may cause a range of health effects, from behavioral problems and learning disabilities, to seizures and death. Children six years old and under are most at risk.
Most Common Sources of Lead Poisoning:
- Deteriorating lead-based paint
- Lead contaminated dust
- Lead contaminated residential soil
On this Web site:
National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week, October 24-30, 2010
- Facts about lead
- Health effects of lead
- Where lead is found
- Where lead is likely to be a hazard
- How to check your family and home for lead
- What you can do to protect your family
- Are you planning to buy or rent a home built before 1978?
- Renovating, repairing or painting a home, child care facility or school with lead-based paint
- Other EPA pamphlets on lead
Where You Live - Get contacts for lead information in each EPA regional office.
Renovation, Repair and Painting - Learn about EPA's lead-safety rules and lead-safe work practices.
Lead Professionals - Read about EPA requirements for lead-based paint abatement for known hazards, inspection, and risk assessment.
Grants - Read about EPA's grant programs to fund lead poisoning prevention activities in local communities and across the nation.
Lead in the News - Read about recalls, lead in toys and children's jewelry and more.
Rules and Regulations - Read about EPA regulations and policy guidance on lead abatement, cleanup, risk assessment, and remodeling and renovations.
Resource Center - Access links to additional information sources on lead from other EPA offices and organizations involved in efforts to reduce lead exposure.