Last Friday, NAHB scored a clear victory when the EPA announced that it would delay enforcement of the worker training and firm certification requirements for the Lead-Based Paint (LBP) rule. Although the rule became effective April 22, this new directive effectively gives remodelers until Oct. 1, 2010, to file for firm certification, until Sept. 30 for workers to register and Dec. 31 for workers to take the required training course. However, workers will still be required to use lead-safe work practices during this time. NAHB has been urging EPA to delay the rule for a number of reasons, including the lack of training providers and training opportunities.

NAHB sent a news release to national media this morning.  Please let the reporters in your area who have been covering this story know about this new development.

EPA’s action is in direct response to NAHB’s continued involvement in the LBP rule, NAHB’s petition to delay the rule, NAHB’s work with the HBA of Tennessee to provide relief in areas damaged by the recent flooding, NAHB’s support of Senator Collin’s amendment to the Supplemental Appropriations Act that would delay the rule’s effective date, and NAHB’s efforts to educate the Members of Congress on the rule and its ramifications. EPA’s memo acknowledges that the delay was necessary because of concerns raised by the regulated community.  Now that EPA has heard and acted on our concerns, it is incumbent on NAHB to continue to provide support to remodelers to increase their awareness of the rule and inform them of the opportunities to get the necessary training and certification.

It is rare that we are able to claim clear victories in the regulatory arena, yet EPA’s delay of enforcement of the LBP rule is exactly that.  Unfortunately, there are still a number of uphill battles ahead related to clearance testing and removal of the “opt-out” provision – battles that staff and the members will continue to fight. Thanks to all of you throughout the federation for working so hard on this issue.

NAHB Public Affairs

NAHB has a number of resources to help its members comply with the new lead paint rule. Remodelers and builders who do renovation or remodeling projects in homes built before 1978 must soon comply with new lead paint safety requirements set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Any company doing work in these homes must be certified, follow specific work practices and keep detailed records. At least one employee in these companies must be trained in these new requirements by April 2010.

http://www.nahb.org/page.aspx/category/sectionID=879