EPA Delays Lead-Paint Restriction

EPA Delays Lead-Paint Restriction

Move praised by industry because it will allow more time for contractors to receive training

Remodeling and home repair specialists fuming over a new federal lead-based paint rule have some breathing room - and more time to get trained - after the government put off enforcing it until Oct. 1.

The Environmental Protection Agency's decision to delay enforcement of the new rule "will provide much-needed time to get more remodelers and other contractors trained, and for EPA to get the word out to consumers about the importance of hiring a certified remodeler," according to the National Association of Home Builders.

Property owners and investors in Oklahoma City joined the builders association in complaining that the EPA was making it impossible for the industry to comply by not certifying instructors fast enough.

Investors organized by Jack Werner, owner of A to Z Inspections, sent a petition to the state's congressional delegation calling the EPA "the essence of bureaucracy" and insisting that the rule would shut down remodeling and repair work on homes built before 1978. The Consumer Product Safety Commission banned lead-based paint in 1977.

On Friday, the EPA acknowledged that many remodelers have not been able to get the training required to comply with the rule.

The homebuilders group said the training issue became clear in May after flooding in Tennessee left homes needing repairs and "there weren't enough certified remodelers" to do the work.

Under the rule, crews still must follow appropriate precautions.

"While remodelers, electricians, heating and air conditioning technicians and other contractors must adhere to lead-safe work practices, including special equipment filters and a ban on open flames, EPA will not take enforcement action against firms that have been unable to obtain certification until Oct. 1 of this year," the homebuilders association said.

Individual contractors must apply to enroll in a training class by Sept. 30.

They must complete their training by Dec. 31, 2010.