California Paints will be hosting courses to train and certify contractors in accordance with the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) Renovation, Repair and Painting Final Rule (40 CRF 745). This rule states that firms and renovators must now be certified by the EPA when disturbing pre-1978 homes or child-occupied facilities based on the possibility of lead exposure. Violation of this EPA regulation may result in fines up to $32,500 and/or possible imprisonment. 
 
The EPA certified renovator training will be provided by the Institute for Environmental Education (IEE), New England's largest environmental trainer. IEE is fully accredited by the US EPA to conduct this eight hour course. Training and certification courses will be held at the California Products Corporation headquarters starting Tuesday, Feb. 2, 2010. 
 
The class covers an overview of lead exposure and how renovators can protect their employees and customers. Hands on demonstrations, cleaning activities, and steps for record keeping will also be taught. A Final Rule 40 CRF 745 certificate will be received upon completion of the course, which is valid for five years. 
 
"California Paints is committed to providing educational information to our paint and contractor customers," said Director of Marketing Maryellen Mantyla. "Working with IEE to offer the latest EPA certification to renovators shows our dedication to being a resource to the professional applicator." By April 22, 2010, renovation firms must be certified by the EPA and must have one or more certified renovators. The Final Rule 40 CFR 745 requires that renovations conducted for compensation, must be performed by certified firms using certified renovators. This rule includes landlords and their employees. 
 
The course was developed by the EPA along with the US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to educate and train contractors on how to work safely in facilities with lead-based paint. Dust from renovations, repairs, and surface preparation create potential hazards when lead-based paint is disturbed. This dust can cause lead poisoning in children, pregnant women, contractors and their families. Lead-safe work practices are necessary. 
 
www.paint.org