In my previous blog entry I laid out the backround around the EPA's current lead based paint program. In this entry I will talk about some of the specific requirements.

Starting in April of 2010, there will be numerous requirements placed on contractors who perform work in homes built prior to 1978.

Regardless of whether you are working inside or outside of an home, these requirements must be met for nearly any project where the renovation will disturb more than 6 sq. ft. of surface area in a pre-1978 structure.

These requirements include testing for the presence of lead-based paint in the work area. If there is no lead found in a home, then there is no need to continue with the implementation of the protocols.

If however, lead is confirmed to be present on an interior project the contractor is then required to post warning signs in the area around the worksite, use extensive plastic sheeting to seal off work area's, remove or seal in plastic furnishings or other items in a room, cover the floor, and implement thorough cleaning requirements including the wiping down of all walls, use of HEPA vacuum equipment and proper disposal of all plastic sheeting. If the work is done on the outside of the home, the regulations can become even more onerous, including covering the outside ground with plastic sheeting a minimum of ten feet around the work area. In certain circumstances, vertical containment can be required. Once a job is done and the cleanup properly carried out, there are record keeping requirements that must be met.

In the event that a contractor fails to properly adhere to this rule, the EPA can issue fines up to $32,500 per day. Ouch...

As mentioned in part one of this blog, I have numerous concerns regarding this rule which I will address in my next blog entry. These include the ability to fairly and evenly enforce this, the costs of implementation and the environmental aspect of these requirements.