Small Entity Compliance Guide to Renovate Right. EPA's Lead-Based Paint Renovation, Repair, and Painting Program September 2011


<3-EPA
United States
Environmental Protection
Agency
Office of Chemical Safety and
Pollution Prevention
EPA-740-K-10-003
September 2011
			—.
Small Entity Compliance
Guide to Renovate Right
EPA's Lead-Based Paint
Renovation, Repair, and
Painting Program
A handbook for contractors,
property managers and
maintenance personnel
working in homes and
child-occupied facilities
built before 1978.
ON CAUTION CAUTION CAUTION
CAUTION C!
cautii

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Who Should Read this Handbook?
• Anyone who owns or manages housing or child-occupied facilities built before 1978.
• Contractors who perforin activities that disturb painted surfaces in homes and child-occupied facilities
built before 1978 (including certain repairs and maintenance, and painting preparation activities).
About this Handbook
This handbook summarizes requirements of EPA's 2008 Lead-Based Paint Renovation, Repair and Painting
Program Rule (as amended in 2010 and 2011), aimed at protecting against lead-based paint hazards associ-
ated with renovation, repair and painting activities. The rule requires workers to be trained to use lead-safe
work practices and requires renovation firms to be EPA-certified; these requirements became fully effective
April 22, 2010.
To ensure compliance, you should also read the complete rule on which the program is based. While EPA has
summarized the provisions of the rule in this guide, the legal requirements that apply to renovation work are
governed by EPA's 2008 Lead Rule. A copy of the rule is available on EPA's website at
www, en a. go v/lead/nu 1) s/reno vation. htm.
A companion pamphlet, entitled The Lead-Safe Certified Guide to Renovate Right: Important Lead Hazard
Information for Families, Child Care Providers, and Schools (EPA-740-K-10-001), has been prepared in con-
junction with the rule for distribution to persons affected by work that disturbs lead-based paint. (See page 17
for information on how to get copies of the rule, the Renovate Right pamphlet, and other related materials.)
Other state or local requirements that are different from or more stringent than the federal requirements
may apply in your state. For example, federal law allows EPA to authorize states to administer their own pro-
gram in lieu of the federal lead program. Even in states without an authorized lead program, a state
may promulgate its own rules that may be different or go beyond the federal requirements. For more
information on the rules that apply in your state, please contact the National Lead Information Center
at 1-800-424-LEAD (5323).
Your feedback is important. Please review this guide and contact the National Lead Information Center
at 1-800-424-LEAD (5323) with any comments regarding its usefulness and readability, and improvements
you think are needed.
This document is published by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as the official compliance
guide for small entities, as required by the Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act of 1996
(SBREFA). Before you begin using the guide, you should know that the information in this guide was
originally published in June 2008, and was revised in July 2010 and September 2011 to address regula-
tory revisions. EPA is continually improving and upgrading its rules, policies, compliance programs, and
outreach efforts. To find out if EPA has revised or supplemented the information in this guide call the
National Lead Information Center at 1-800-424-LEAD (5323).

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What Is the Lead-Based Paint Renovation, Repair and
Painting Program (RRP)?
• The Lead-Based Paint Renovation, Repair and Painting Program is a federal regulatory program affecting
contractors, property managers, and others who disturb painted surfaces.
• It applies to residential houses, apartments, and child-occupied facilities such as schools and day-care
centers built before 1978.
• It includes pre-renovation education requirements as well as training, certification, and work practice
requirements.
- Pre-renovation education requirements:
• Contractors, property managers, and others who perform renovations for compensation
in residential houses, apartments, and child-occupied facilities built before 1978 are required
to distribute a lead pamphlet before starting renovation work.
- Training, certification, and work practice requirements:
• Firms are required to be certified, their employees must be trained (either as a certified renovator or
on-the-job by a certified renovator) in use of lead-safe work practices, and lead-safe work practices hat
minimize occupants' exposure to lead hazards must be followed.
• Renovation is broadly defined as any activity that disturbs painted surfaces and includes most repair,
remodeling, and maintenance activities, including window replacement.
• The program includes requirements implementing both Section 402(c) and 406(b) of the Toxic
Substances Control Act (TSCA). (www.cna.gov/lcart/nuhs/titlctcn.html)
• EPA's lead renovation regulations can be found at 40 CFR Part 745, Subpart E.
How Can this Handbook Help Me?
• Understanding the lead program's requirements can help you protect your customers from the hazards of
lead and can, therefore, mean more business for you.
• This handbook presents simple steps to follow to comply with the EPA's lead program. It also lists ways
these steps can be easily incorporated into your work.
• Distributing the lead pamphlet and incorporating required work practices into your job site will help protect
your customers and occupants from the hazards of lead-based paint.
1

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Who Must Follow the Renovation, Repair and Painting Rule's Re-
quirements?
In general, anyone who is paid to perform work that disturbs paint in housing and
child-occupied facilities built before 1978, this may include, but is not limited to:
-	Residential rental property owners/managers
-	General contractors
-	Special trade contractors, including
•	Painters
•	Plumbers
•	Carpenters
•	Electricians
What Activities Are Subject to the Lead Renovation, Repair and
Painting Program?
In general, any activity that disturbs paint in pre-1978 housing and child-occupied facilities, including:
•	Remodeling and repair/maintenance
•	Electrical work
•	Plumbing
•	Painting preparation
•	Carpentry
•	Window replacement
What Housing or Activities Are Excluded and Not Subject
to the Rule?
•	Housing built in 1978 or later.
•	Housing for elderly or disabled persons, unless children under 6 reside or are expected to reside there.
•	Zero-bedroom dwellings (studio apartments, dormitories, etc.).
•	Housing or components that have been declared lead-free. Such a declaration can be made by a certified
inspector or risk assessor. Also, a certified renovator may declare specific components lead-free using an
EPA recognized test kit or by collecting paint chip samples and obtaining test results from an
EPA recognized laboratory showing the components do not contain lead-based paint.
•	Minor repair and maintenance activities that disturb 6 square feet or less of paint per room inside, or 20
square feet or less on the exterior of a home or building.
•	Note: minor repair and maintenance activities do not include window replacement and projects involving
demolition or prohibited practices.
2

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What Does the Program Require Me To Do?
Pre-renovation education requirements.
• In housing built before 1978, you must:
• Distribute EPA's lead pamphlet (www.ei)a.gov/lead/i)ubs/brochure.htm) to the owner and occupants
before renovation starts.
• In a child-occupied facility, you must:
• Distribute the lead pamphlet to the owner of the building or an adult representative of the child-occupied
facility before the renovation starts.
• Either distribute renovation notices to parents/guardians of the children attending the child-occupied
facility, or post informational signs about the renovation or repair job.
• For work in common areas of multi-family housing, you must:
• Either distribute renovation notices to tenants or post informational signs about the renovation or
repair job.
• Informational signs must:
• Be posted where they will be seen;
• Describe the nature, locations, and dates of the renovation; and
• Be accompanied by the lead pamphlet or by information on how parents and guardians can get a free
copy (see page 29 for information on obtaining copies).
• Obtain confirmation of receipt of the lead pamphlet (see page 23) from the owner, adult representative, or
occupants (as applicable), or a certificate of mailing from the post office.
• Retain records for three years.
• Note: Pre-renovation education requirements do not apply to emergency renovations.
Emergency renovations include interim controls performed in response to a resident child
with an elevated blood-lead level.
Training, Certification, and Work Practice Requirements.
• All firms must be certified (even sole-proprietors).
• All renovators must be trained.
• Lead-safe work practices must be followed. Examples of these practices include:
• Work-area containment to prevent dust and debris from leaving the work area.
• Prohibition of certain work practices like open-flame burning and the use of power tools without HEPA
exhaust control.
• Thorough clean up followed by a verification procedure to minimize exposure to lead-based
paint hazards.
3

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How Does a Firm Become Certified?
Firms must apply to EPA for certification to perform renovations or dust sampling. To apply, a firm must
submit to EPA a completed "Application for Firms," signed by an authorized agent of the firm, and pay the
correct amount of fees. To obtain a copy of the "Application for Firms" contact the NLIC at 1-800-424-LEAD
(5323) or visit www.ena.gov/getleadsafe
What Are the Responsibilities of a Certified Firm?
Firms performing renovations must ensure that:
1.	All individuals performing activities that disturb painted surfaces on behalf of the firm are either certified
renovators or have been trained by a certified renovator.
2.	A certified renovator is assigned to each renovation and performs all of the certified renovator
responsibilities.
3.	All renovations performed by the firm are performed in accordance with the work practice standards of the
Lead-Based Paint Renovation, Repair, and Painting Program (see the flowchart on page 9 for details
about the work practice standards).
4.	Pre-renovation education and lead pamphlet distribution requirements of the Lead-Based Paint Renovation,
Repair, and Painting Program are performed
5.	The program's recordkeeping requirements are met.
4

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How Does a Renovator Become Certified?
To become a certified renovator an individual must successfully complete an eight-hour initial renovator
training course offered by an accredited training provider (training providers are accredited by EPA, or by an
authorized state or tribal program). The course completion certificate serves as proof of certification. To find
a trainer in your area contact the NLIC at 1-800-424-LEAD (5323) or visit www.ena.gov/getleadsafe.
Are There Streamlined Requirements for Contractors with
Previous Lead Training?
Yes. Individuals who have successfully completed an accredited lead abatement worker or supervisor course,
or individuals who have successfully completed certain EPA, Department of Housing and Urban
Development (HUD), or EPA/HUD model renovation training courses before October 4, 2011, need only
take a four-hour refresher renovator training course instead of the eight-hour initial renovator training course
to become certified. For a list of qualified previous training courses contact the NLIC at 1-800-424-LEAD
(5323) or visit www.ena.gov/lead/nuhs/trainerinstructions.htmtfrefresher.
What Are the Responsibilities of a Certified Renovator?
Certified renovators are responsible for ensuring overall compliance with the Lead-Based Paint Renovation,
Repair, and Painting Program's requirements for lead-safe work practices at renovations they are assigned
(see the flowchart on page 9 for details about the work practice standards). A certified renovator:
1. Must provide on-the-job training to other workers (who have not taken the certified renovator training
course) on the lead safe work practices to be used in performing their assigned tasks.
2. Must be physically present at the work site when warning signs are posted, while the work-area
containment is being established, and while the work-area cleaning is performed.
3. Must regularly direct work being performed by other individuals to ensure that the work practices are
being followed, including maintaining the integrity of the containment barriers and ensuring that dust or
debris does not spread beyond the work area.
4. When requested by the party contracting for renovation services, must use an EPA recognized test kit or
must collect paint chip samples, submit them to an EPA-recognized laboratory, and obtain test results
from the laboratory to determine whether components affected by the renovation contain lead-based paint.
(For more information regarding test kits call the National Lead Information Center at 1-800-424-LEAD
(5323), or check our web site at www.cna.gov/lcart/nuhs/rcnovation.htm). Note: you must assume lead-
based paint is present for housing and buildings covered by this rule, unless testing is done that determines
the components affected are lead-free.
5. Must be available, either on-site or by telephone, at all times renovations are being conducted.
6. Must perform project cleaning verification.
7. Must have with them at the work site copies of their initial course completion certificate and their most
recent refresher course completion certificate.
8. Must prepare required records.
5

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How Long Do Firm and Renovator Certifications Last?
To maintain their certification, individual renovators and firms must be re-certified by EPA every five years.
A firm must submit to EPA a completed "Application for Firms," signed by an authorized agent of the firm,
and pay the correct amount of fees. Individual renovators must successfully complete a refresher training
course provided by an accredited training provider.
What Are the Recordkeeping Requirements?
•	All documents must be retained for three years following the completion of a renovation.
•	Records that must be retained include:
•	Reports certifying that lead-based paint is not present.
•	Records relating to the distribution of the lead pamphlet.
•	Documentation of compliance with the requirements of the Lead-Based Paint Renovation,
Repair, and Painting Program. This information must also be given to the owner and, if different, the
occupant of the housing or unit that was renovated (EPA has prepared a sample form that is available at
www.cna.gov/lcart/nuhs/samnlcchccklist.iHlf')
What Are the Required Work Practices?
The flow charts on the following pages will help determine if your project is subject to the Lead-
Based Paint Renovation, Repair and Painting Program's requirements and, if so, the specific require-
ments for your particular project. The flowcharts, and other information included in this guide, are not
intended to be a replacement for official training.
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EPA's Lead Program Rule At-A-Glance
Do the Requirements Apply to the Renovation?
If you will be getting paid to do work that disturbs painted surfaces in a pre-1978 home, apartment
building, or child-occupied facility, answer the questions below to determine if the EPA lead program
requires you to distribute the lead pamphlet and/or if you will need to comply with training, certifica-
tion, and work practice requirements when conducting the work.
Does the job involve activities that disturb painted surfaces in a
home or child-occupied facility built before 1978?

m
Are ANY of the following conditions present?
• The work is a lead abatement project.
•Work consists of only minor repairs or maintenance that disturb 6
square feet or less of painted surfaces per room for interior activi-
ties or 20 square feet or less of painted surface for exterior activi-
ties. Note: this does not include window replacement, demolition,
and projects involving prohibited practices.
•Housing has been determined to be free of lead-based paint either
by a certified inspector or risk assessor, or the components being
renovated have been determined to be free of lead-based paint by
a certified renovator using either an EPA recognized test kit or
laboratory analysis of collected paint chip samples.
•Housing is a zero-bedroom dwelling (studio apartments, dormito-
ries, etc.).
•Housing is for the elderly or disabled and no children under six
reside or are expected to reside there.
Is the project an emergency renovation?
Emergency renovations are:
1. Activities that were not planned and if not immediately
attended to present a safety hazard or threaten equipment
and/or property with significant damage.
OR
2. Interim controls performed in response to an elevated blood
lead level in a resident child.
~
You will need to provide the lead pamphlet.
See Flow Chart 2 for specific requirements.

EPA
lead-based
paint renovation,
repair, and
painting program
requirements
do not apply.

Pre-renovation
education
requirements
of the program
do not apply.
See Flow Chart 3
to determine which
specific renovation
training and work
practice requirements
apply to the job.
Flow Chart 1
7

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How Do I Comply with the Pre-Renovation Education Requirements?
Requirements to distribute pre-renovation educational materials vary based on the location of the
renovation. Select the location below that best describes the location of your project, and follow the
applicable procedure on the right.
Renovations
in Owner-
Occupied
Dwelling
Units
W
Renovations
J
in Tenant-
¦
Occupied
n
Dwelling

Units

Renovations
in Child-
Occupied
Facilities
Deliver lead pamphlet (www.ena.pov/lead/niihs/hrochiire.htin) to
owner before renovation begins and obtain confirmation of receipt.
OR
Mail lead pamphlet to owner 7 days before renovation begins and docu-
ment with certificate of mailing.
1. Provide lead pamphlet to owner using either procedure described in
the box at the top of this page.
2. Provide lead pamphlet to tenant by either method below:
(a) Deliver pamphlet to dwelling unit before renovation begins and
document delivery with either a confirmation of receipt of lead
pamphlet or a self-certification of delivery.
k
*
OR
(b)Mail lead pamphlet to tenant at least 7 days prior to renovation
and document with a certificate of mailing.
Renovations
L,
in Common
¦
Areas
n
of Multi-

Family

Housing Units

~
1. Provide owner with lead pamphlet using either procedure described
in the box at the top of this page.
2. Notify tenants and make pamphlet available, or post signs describing
the renovation. The signs must include the pamphlet or information
on how to review a copy.
3. Maintain written documentation describing notification procedures.
4. Provide supplemental renovation notice if changes occur in location,
timing, or scope of renovation occurring.
it
1. Provide the owner of the building with the lead pamphlet using either:
(a) The procedure described in the box at the top of this page.
OR
See
Flow
Chart 3
for
information
about
specific
training
and work
practice
requirements
for the job.
*
(b)If the child-occupied facility is not the building owner, provide the lead pamphlet by either
method below:
(i) Obtain a written acknowledgment that an adult representative received the pamphlet; or cer-
tify in writing that a pamphlet was delivered.
OR
(ii) Obtain a certificate of mailing at least 7 days before the renovation.
2. Provide the parents or guardians of children using the childoccupied facility with information by
either of these methods:
(a) Mail or hand-deliver the lead pamphlet and renovation information to each parent or guardian.
OR
(b)Post signs describing the renovation. The signs must include the pamphlet or information on
how to review a copy.
8
Flow Chart 2

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Do the Renovation Training and Work Practices Apply?
Is the project an emergency renovation?


Does the project include interim controls performed in
response to an elevated blood lead level of a resident
child?

Continue to
Flow Chart 4
for work
practice
requirements.
Emergency projects are exempt from the warning sign,
containment, waste handling, training, and certification
requirements to the extent necessary to respond to the
emergency. Emergency renovations are NOT exempt
from the cleaning and cleaning verification requirements.
See Flow Chart 5 for interior cleaning and cleaning
verification requirements, and Flow Chart 8 for exterior
cleaning and verification requirements.
Flow Chart 3
9

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Work Practice Requirements
General
(A) Renovations must be performed by certified firms using certified renovators.
(B) Finns must post signs clearly defining the work area and warning occupants and other persons
not involved in renovation activities to remain outside of the work area. These signs should be
in the language of the occupants.
(C) Prior to the renovation, the firm must contain the work area so that no dust or debris leaves
the work area while the renovation is being performed.
(D) Work practices listed below are prohibited during a renovation:
1. Open-flame burning or torching of painted surfaces;
2. Use of machines that remove paint or other surface coatings through high speed operation such
as sanding, grinding, power planing, needle gun, abrasive blasting, or sandblasting, unless such
machines have shrouds or contaimnent systems and are equipped with a HEPA vacuum attachment
to collect dust and debris at the point of generation. Machines must be operated so that no visible
dust or release of air occurs outside the shroud or contaimnent system; and
3. Operating a heat gun on painted surfaces at temperatures above 1100 degrees Fahrenheit.
(E) Waste from renovations:
1. Waste from renovation activities must be contained to prevent releases of dust and debris
before the waste is removed from the work area for storage or disposal.
2. At the conclusion of each work day and at the conclusion of the renovation waste that has
been collected from renovation activities must be stored to prevent access to and the release
of dust and debris.
3. Waste transported from renovation activities must be contained to prevent release of dust
and debris.
Interior Exterior
Renovation
Projects.
See Flow
Chart 5.
Renovation
Projects.
See Flow
Chart 8.
10
Flow Chart 4

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Work Practice Requirements Specific to Interior Renovations
The firm must:
(A) Remove all objects from the work area or cover them with plastic sheeting with all seams and
edges sealed.
(B) Close and cover all ducts opening in the work area with taped-down plastic sheeting.
(C) Close windows and doors in the work area. Doors must be covered with plastic sheeting.
(D) Cover the floor surface with taped-down plastic sheeting in the work area a minimum of six feet
beyond the perimeter of surfaces undergoing renovation or a sufficient distance to contain the dust,
whichever is greater. If a vertical containment system is employed, floor covering may stop at the
vertical barrier, providing it is impermeable, extends from floor to ceiling, and is tightly sealed at
floors, ceilings, and walls.
(E) Use precautions to ensure that all personnel, tools, and other items, including the exteriors of
containers of waste, are free of dust and debris when leaving the work area.
(F) After the renovation has been completed, the firm must clean the work area until no dust, debris or
residue remains. The firm must:
1. Collect all paint chips and debris, and seal it in a heavy-duty bag.
2. Remove and dispose of protective sheeting as waste.
3. Clean all objects and surfaces in the work area and within two feet of the work area in the
following manner:
a. Clean walls starting at the ceiling and working down to the floor by either vacuuming with a
HEPA vacuum or wiping with a damp cloth.
b. Thoroughly vacuum all remaining surfaces and objects in the work area, including furniture
and fixtures, with a HEPA vacuum.
c. Wipe all remaining surfaces and objects in the work area, except for carpeted or upholstered
surfaces, with a damp cloth. Mop uncarpeted floors thoroughly using a mopping method that
keeps the wash water separate from the rinse water, or using a wet mopping system.
I
Cleaning verification is required to ensure the work area
is adequately cleaned and ready for re-occupancy.
See Flow Chart 6 for instructions on performing cleaning
verification for interior projects.
Flow Chart 5
11

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Interior Cleaning Verification: Visual Inspection and Optional
Clearance Testing
Certified renovator must perform a visual inspection.
Is dust, debris or residue present?
Does the contract, or another federal, state, territorial, tribal, or
local regulation, require clearance testing at the conclusion of the
renovation?
Are the dust clearance samples required to be collected
by a certified inspector, risk assessor or dust sampling
technician, and is the renovation firm required to re-clean the
work area until the dust clearance sample results are below
applicable clearance standards?
When you meet the applicable clearance standards,
you're finished!	
The area must be
re-cleaned and another
visual inspection must
be performed.
H

Continue to
cleaning
verification
procedure.
See Flow
Chart 7.
12
Flow Chart 6

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Interior Cleaning Verification: Floors, Countertops, and Window Sills
Note: For areas greater than 40 square feet, separate the area into sections and use a new disposable
cleaning cloth for each section.
Certified renovator must wipe all uncarpeted floors, countertops,
and windowsills within the work area with a wet disposable clean-
ing cloth. Is the cloth used for any area darker than the cleaning
verification card?
Re-clean the areas that failed using the procedures from Flow
Chart 5, then use a new wet disposable cleaning cloth to wipe
those areas again. Is the cloth used for any area darker than the
cleaning verification card?
Wait until either the area has dried completely or 1 hour has
passed, whichever is longer. Once dry, wipe that area with a dry
disposable cleaning cloth.

The
work area
has been
adequately
cleaned
and
warning
signs
may be
removed.

1

You're finished!
Flow Chart 7
13

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Work Practice Requirements Specific to Exterior Renovations
The firm must:
(A) Close all doors and windows within 20 feet of the renovation.
(B) Ensure that doors within the work area that will be used while the job is being performed are
covered with plastic sheeting in a manner that allows workers to pass through while confining
dust and debris.
(C) Cover the ground with plastic sheeting or other disposable impermeable material extending a
minimum of 10 feet beyond the perimeter or a sufficient distance to collect falling paint debris,
whichever is greater. If a property line prevents 10 feet of such ground covering, then erect verti-
cal containment or equivalent extra precautions to prevent contamination of adjacent buildings and
property.
(D) In situations such as where work areas are in close proximity to other buildings, windy conditions,
etc., the renovation firm must take extra precautions in containing the work area, like vertical
containment.
(E) After the renovation has been completed, the firm must clean the work area until no dust, debris or
residue remains. The firm must:
1. Collect all paint chips and debris, and seal it in a heavy-duty bag.
2. Remove and dispose of protective sheeting as waste.
3. Waste transported from renovation activities must be contained to prevent release of dust and
debris.
A certified renovator must perform a visual inspection.
Is dust, debris or residue present?
These conditions
must be eliminated and
another visual inspec-
tion must
be performed.
The area has
been adequately
cleaned; remove
the warning signs
You're finished!
14
Flow Chart 8

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How Is My Compliance Determined, and What Happens if the
Agency Discovers a Violation?
To maximize compliance, EPA implements a balanced program of compliance assistance, compliance incen-
tives, and traditional law enforcement. EPA knows that small businesses that must comply with complicated
new statutes or rules often want to do the right thing, but may lack the requisite knowledge, resources, or
skills. Compliance assistance information and technical advice helps small businesses to understand and
meet their environmental obligations. Compliance incentives, such as EPA's Small Business Policy, apply to
businesses with 100 or fewer employees and encourage persons to voluntarily discover, disclose, and correct
violations before they are identified by the govermnent (more information about EPA's Small Business Policy
is available at www.ci)a.gov/comi)liancc/inccntivcs/smalIhusincss/indcx.html) EPA's enforcement program
is aimed at protecting the public by targeting persons or entities who neither comply nor cooperate to address
their legal obligations.
EPA uses a variety of methods to determine whether businesses are complying, including inspecting work
sites, reviewing records and reports, and responding to citizen tips and complaints. Under TSCA, EPA (or
a state, if this program has been delegated to it) may file an enforcement action against violators seeking
penalties of up to $37,500 per violation, per day. The proposed penalty in a given case will depend on many
factors, including the number, length, and severity of the violations, the economic benefit obtained by the vio-
lator, and its ability to pay. EPA has policies in place to ensure penalties are calculated fairly. These policies
are available to the public. In addition, any company charged with a violation has the right to contest EPA's
allegations and proposed penalty before an impartial judge or jury.
EPA encourages small businesses to work with the Agency to discover, disclose, and correct violations. The
Agency has developed self-disclosure, small business, and small community policies to modify penalties for
small and large entities that cooperate with EPA to address compliance problems. In addition, EPA has estab-
lished compliance assistance centers to serve over one million small businesses (see Construction Industry
Compliance Assistance Center for information regarding this rule at www.cicacenter.org). For more informa-
tion on compliance assistance and other EPA programs for small businesses, please contact EPA's Small Busi-
ness Ombudsman at 202-566-2075.
15

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Frequent Questions
What is the legal status of this guide?
This guide was prepared pursuant to section 212 of SBREFA. EPA has tried to help explain in this guide what
you must do to comply with the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) and EPA's lead regulations. However,
this guide has no legal effect and does not create any legal rights. Compliance with the procedures described
in this guide does not establish compliance with the rule or establish a presumption or inference of compli-
ance. The legal requirements that apply to renovation work are governed by EPA's 2008 Lead Rule, which
controls if there is any inconsistency between the rule and the information in this guide.
Is painting considered renovation if no surface preparation activity occurs?
No. If the surface to be painted is not disturbed by sanding, scraping, or other activities that may cause dust,
the work is not considered renovation and EPA's lead program requirements do not apply. However, painting
projects that involve surface preparation that disturbs paint, such as sanding and scraping, would be covered.
What if I renovate my own home?
EPA's lead program rules apply only to renovations performed for compensation; therefore, if you work on
your own home, the rules do not apply. EPA encourages homeowners to use lead-safe work practices, none-
theless, in order to protect themselves, their families, and the value of their homes.
Is a renovation performed by a landlord or employees of a property management firm con-
sidered a compensated renovation under EPA's lead program rules?
Yes. The receipt of rent payments or salaries derived from rent payments is considered compensation under
EPA's lead program. Therefore, renovation activities performed by landlords or employees of landlords are
covered.
Do I have to give out the lead pamphlet seven days prior to beginning renovation activities?
The 7-day advance delivery requirement applies only when you deliver the lead pamphlet by mail;
otherwise, you may deliver the pamphlet anytime before the renovation begins so long as the renovation
begins within 60 days of the date that the pamphlet is delivered. For example, if your renovation is to begin
May 30, you may deliver the pamphlet in person anytime between April 1 and start of the project on May 30,
or you may deliver the pamphlet by mail anytime between April 1 and May 23.
Tips for Easy Compliance
1. For your convenience the sample form on page 23 of this handbook is included in the Renovate
Right lead pamphlet (see page 29 for information on how to get copies). Attach the form to the
back of your customer renovation or repair contracts. The completed form can be filed along with
your regular paperwork.
2. Plan ahead to obtain enough copies of the lead pamphlet (see page 29 for information on how to
get copies of the pamphlet).
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Where Can I Get More Information?
Further information is available from the National Lead Information Center (800-424-LEAD) and
the Internet at www.ena.gov/lead. Available resources include:
•	Full text version of the Lead-Based Paint Renovation, Repair, and Painting Program regulation.
•	Frequent Questions which provide more detailed information on the rule's requirements.
•	A downloadable version of the lead pamphlet.
Why Is Lead Paint Dangerous?
Lead gets into the body when it is swallowed or inhaled. People,
especially children, can swallow lead dust as they eat, play, and do
other normal hand-to-mouth activities. People may also breathe in
lead dust or fumes if they disturb lead-based paint. People who
sand, scrape, burn, brush, blast or otherwise disturb lead-based
paint risk unsafe exposure to lead.
Lead is especially dangerous to children under 6 years of age.
Lead can affect children's brains and developing nervous
systems, causing:
•	Reduced IQ and learning disabilities.
•	Behavioral problems.
Even children who appear healthy can have dangerous levels of lead in their bodies.
Lead is also harmful to adults. In adults, low levels of
lead can pose many dangers, including:
•	High blood pressure and hypertension.
•	Pregnant women exposed to lead can transfer lead to
their fetus.

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Other Resources
For additional information on how to protect yourself and your customers from lead paint hazards,
visit www.ena.gov/lead or call the National Lead Information Center at 1-800-424-LEAD (5323).
Available documents include:
•	The Lead-Safe Certified Guide to Renovate Right: Important Lead Hazard Information for Families, Child
Care Providers and Schools
'	Joint EPA-HUD Curriculum: Lead Safety for Remodeling, Repair, and Painting
•	Steps to Lead Safe Renovation, Repair and Painting
•	Fight Lead Poisoning with a Healthy Diet
•	Protect Your Family From Lead in Your Home
•	Lead in Your Home: A Parent's Reference Guide
irttpormm lead fuuard information for
families, child e«c providers and trtvooM
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Key Terms
Certificate of Mailing — A written verification from the Postal Service that you mailed the lead pamphlet
to an owner or a tenant. This is less expensive than certified mail, which is also acceptable for meeting the
Lead-Based Paint Renovation, Repair, and Painting Program requirements. (Note: If using this delivery
option, you must mail the pamphlet at least seven days prior to the start of renovation.)
Certified Inspector or Risk Assessor — An individual who has been trained and is certified by EPA or an
authorized state or Indian Tribe to conduct lead-based paint inspections or risk assessments.
Child-occupied Facility — May include, but is not limited to, day care centers, pre-schools and kindergarten
classrooms. Child-occupied facilities may be located in target housing or in public or commercial buildings.
The regulation defines a "child-occupied facility" as a building, or portion of a building, constructed prior to
1978, visited regularly by the same child, under 6 years of age, on at least two different days within any week
(Sunday through Saturday period), provided that each day's visit lasts at least three hours and the combined
weekly visits last at least six hours, and the combined annual visits last at least 60 hours. Child-occupied
facilities may be located in target housing, or in public or commercial buildings. With respect to common
areas in public or commercial buildings that contain child-occupied facilities, the child-occupied facility
encompasses only those common areas that are routinely used by children under age 6, such as restrooms
and cafeterias. Common areas that children under age 6 only pass through, such as hallways, stairways, and
garages are not included. In addition, with respect to exteriors of public or commercial buildings that contain
child-occupied facilities, the child-occupied facility encompasses only the exterior sides of the building that
are immediately adjacent to the child-occupied facility or the common areas routinely used by children under
age 6.
Cleaning Verification Card — a card developed and distributed by EPA for the purpose of determining,
through comparison of wet and dry disposable cleaning cloths with the card, whether post-renovation
cleaning has been properly completed.
Common Area — A portion of a building that is generally accessible to all residents or users. Common
areas include (but are not limited to) hallways, stairways, laundry rooms, recreational rooms, playgrounds,
community centers, and fenced areas. The term applies to both interiors and exteriors of the building.
Component — A specific design or structural element or fixture distinguished by its form, function, and
location. A component can be located inside or outside the dwelling. Examples...
Interior	Exterior
Ceilings Painted roofing
Crown molding		—
Walls
Doors and trim
Floors
Fireplaces
Radiators
Shelves
Stair treads
Windows and trim
Built-in cabinets
Beams
Bathroom vanities
Counter tops
Air conditioners
Flashing
Gutters and downspouts
Ceilings
Soffits
Doors and trim
Fences
Floors
Joists
Handrails
Window sills and sashes
Air conditioners
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Confirmation of Receipt of Lead Hazard Information Pamphlet — A form that is signed by the owner or ten-
ant of the housing confirming that they received a copy of the lead pamphlet before the renovation began.
(See sample on page 23.)
Emergency Renovation — Unplanned renovation activities done in response to a sudden, unexpected event
which, if not immediately attended to, presents a safety or public health hazard or threatens property with
significant damage.
Examples
• Renovation to repair damage from a tree that fell on a house.
• Renovation to repair a burst water pipe in an apartment complex.
• Interim controls performed in response to an elevated blood lead level in a resident child.
Firm — A company, partnership, corporation, sole proprietorship or individual doing business, association,
or other business entity; a Federal, State, Tribal, or local government agency; or a nonprofit organization.
General Contractor — One who contracts for the construction of an entire building or project, rather than for
a portion of the work. The general contractor hires subcontractors (e.g. plumbing, electrical, etc.), coordinates
all work, and is responsible for payment to subcontractors.
Housing for the Elderly — Retirement communities or similar types of housing specifically reserved for
households of one or more persons 62 years of age or older at the time the unit is first occupied.
Interim Controls — Interim controls means a set of measures designed to temporarily reduce human exposure
or likely exposure to lead-based paint hazards, including specialized cleaning, repairs, maintenance, painting,
temporary containment, ongoing monitoring of lead-based paint hazards or potential hazards, and the estab-
lishment and operation of management and resident education programs.
Lead Abatement — Work designed to permanently eliminate lead-based paint hazards. If you are hired to do
lead-abatement work only, the Lead-Based Paint Renovation, Repair, and Painting Program does not apply.
Abatement does not include renovation, remodeling, or other activities done to repair, restore, or redesign a
given building — even if such renovation activities incidentally eliminate lead-based paint hazards. {Note:
Some states define this term differently than described above. Consult your state officials if you are not sure
how "lead abatement" is defined in your state.)
Lead Pamphlet — The lead hazard information pamphlet for the purpose of pre-renovation education is The
LeadSafe Certified Guide to Renovate Right: Important Lead Hazard Information for Families, Child Care
Facilities and Schools, or an EPA-approved alternative pamphlet. (See page 29 for information on obtaining
copies.)
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Minor Repair and Maintenance — Activities that disrupt 6 square feet or less of painted surface per room for
interior activities or 20 square feet or less of painted surface for exterior activities where none of the prohibit-
ed work practices is used and where the work does not involve window replacement or demolition of painted
surface areas. When removing painted components, or portions of painted components, the entire surface area
removed is the amount of painted surface disturbed. Jobs, other than emergency renovations, performed in the
same room within the same 30 days must be considered the same job for the purpose of determining whether
the job is a minor repair and maintenance activity.
Owner — Any person or entity that has legal title to housing, including individuals, partnerships,
corporations, government agencies, Indian Tribes, and nonprofit organizations.
Painted Surface — A component surface covered in whole or in part with paint or other surface coatings.
Prohibited Practices — Work practices listed below are prohibited during a renovation:
•	Open-flame burning or torching of painted surfaces;
•	Use of machines that remove paint or other surface coatings through high speed operation such as sanding,
grinding, power planing, needle gun, abrasive blasting, or sandblasting, unless such machines have shrouds
or containment systems and are equipped with a HEPA vacuum attachment to collect dust and debris at the
point of generation. Machines must be operated so that no visible dust or release of air occurs outside the
shroud or containment system.
•	Operating a heat gun on painted surfaces at temperatures above 1100 degrees Fahrenheit.
Record of Notification — A written statement documenting the steps taken to notify occupants of renovation
activities in common areas of multi-family housing. (See page 25 for sample.)
Renovation — Modification of all or part of any existing structure that disturbs a painted surface, except for
some specifically exempted activities (e.g., minor repair and maintenance). Includes:
•	Removal/modification of painted surfaces, components, or structures
•	Surface preparation activities (sanding/scraping/other activities that may create paint dust)
•	Window replacement
Examples
1.	Demolition of painted walls or ceilings
2.	Replastering
3.	Plumbing repairs or improvements
4.	Any other activities which disturb painted surfaces
Renovation Notice — Notice to tenants of renovations in common areas of multi-family housing. (See sample
form on page 25.) Notice must describe nature, location, and expected timing of renovation activity; and must
explain how the lead pamphlet may be obtained free of charge.
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Renovator — A person who either performs or directs
workers who perform renovation. A certified renova-
tor is a renovator who has successfully completed a
renovator course accredited by EPA or an EPA autho-
rized State or Tribal program. (Note: Because the term
"renovation" is defined broadly by the Lead-Based
Paint Renovation, Repair, and Painting Program, many
contractors who are not generally considered "renova-
tors", as that term is commonly used, are considered to
be "renovators" under the program and must follow the
rule's requirements.)
Self-Certification of Delivery — An alternative
method of documenting delivery of the lead hazard
information pamphlet to a tenant. This method may be
used whenever the tenant is unavailable or unwilling to
sign a confirmation of receipt of lead pamphlet. (See
sample form on page 23.) (Note: This method is not a
permissible substitute for delivery of the lead pamphlet
to an owner.)
Supplemental Renovation Notice — additional
notification that is required when the scope, location,
or timing of project changes.
Vertical Containment — A vertical barrier consisting
of plastic sheeting or other impermeable material over
scaffolding or a rigid frame, or an equivalent system
of containing the work area. Vertical containment is
required for some exterior renovations but it may be
used on any renovation.
Zero-Bedroom Dwelling — Any residential
dwelling where the living area is not separated from
the sleeping area. This term includes efficiency and
studio apartments, dormitory housing, and military
barracks.


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Sample Pre-Renovation Form
This sample form may be used by firms to document compliance with the requirements of the Federal
Lead-Based Paint Renovation, Repair, and Painting Program.
Occupant Confirmation
Pamphlet Receipt
I have received a copy of the lead hazard information pamphlet informing me of the potential risk of the
lead hazard exposure from renovation activity to be performed in my dwelling unit. I received this
pamphlet before the work began.
Printed Name of Owner-occupant
Signature of Owner-occupant Signature Date
Renovator's Self Certification Option (for tenant-occupied dwellings only)
Instructions to Renovator: If the lead hazard information pamphlet was delivered but a tenant signature was not
obtainable, you may check the appropriate box below.
Declined -1 certify that I have made a good faith effort to deliver the lead hazard information pamphlet
to the rental dwelling unit listed below at the date and time indicated and that the occupant declined to
sign the confirmation of receipt. I further certify that I have left a copy of the pamphlet at the unit with
the occupant.
Unavailable for signature -1 certify that I have made a good faith effort to deliver the lead hazard
information pamphlet to the rental dwelling unit listed below and that the occupant was unavailable to
sign the confirmation of receipt. I further certify that I have left a copy of the pamphlet at the unit by
sliding it under the door or by (fill in how pamphlet was left).
Printed Name of Person Certifying Delivery Attempted Delivery Date
Signature of Person Certifying Lead Pamphlet Delivery
Unit Address
Note Regarding Mailing Option — As an alternative to delivery in person, you may mail the lead
hazard information pamphlet to the owner and/or tenant. Pamphlet must be mailed at least 7 days
before renovation. Mailing must be documented by a certificate of mailing from the post office.
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^tD srx

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Sample Forms (continued)
Renovation Notice — For use in notifying tenants of renovations in common areas of multi-family
housing.
The following renovation activities will take place in the following locations:
Activity (e.g., sanding, window replacement)
Location (e.g., lobby, recreation center)
The expected starting date is	and the expected ending date is	.
Because this is an older building built before 1978, some of the paint disturbed during the renovation
may contain lead. You may obtain a copy of the pamphlet Renovate Right, by telephoning me
at	. Please leave a message and be sure to include your name, phone num-
ber and address. I will either mail you a pamphlet or slide one under your door.
Date	Printed name of renovator
Signature of renovator
Record of Tenant Notification Procedures
Project Address 	
Street (apt. #) 	
City	State	Zip Code
Owner of multi-family housing
Number of dwelling units
Method of delivering notice forms (e.g
. delivery to units, delivery to mailboxes of units)
Name of person delivering notices
Signature of person delivering notices	Date of Delivery
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^tD srx

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Sample Renovation Recordkeeping Checklist
Name of Finn:	
Date and Location of Renovation: 	
Brief Description of Renovation:
Name of Assigned Renovator:
Name(s) of Trained Worker(s), if used:
Name of Dust Sampling Technician,
Inspector, or Risk Assessor, if used: 	
	 Copies of renovator and dust sampling technician qualifications (training certificates, certifications) on file.
Certified renovator provided training to workers on (check all that apply):
	Test kit or test results from an EPA-recognized laboratory on collected paint chip sample, used by certified
renovator to determine whether lead was present on components affected by renovation (identify method
used, type of test kit used (if applicable), laboratory used to conduct paint chip analysis, describe sampling
locations and results):
	 Warning signs posted at entrance to work area.
	 Work area contained to prevent spread of dust and debris
	All objects in the work area removed or covered (interiors)
	HVAC ducts in the work area closed and covered (interiors)
	Windows in the work area closed (interiors)
	Windows in and within 20 feet of the work area closed (exteriors)
	Doors in the work area closed and sealed (interiors)
	Doors in and within 20 feet of the work area closed and sealed (exteriors)
	Doors that must be used in the work area covered to allow passage but prevent spread of dust
	Floors in the work area covered with taped-down plastic (interiors)
	Ground covered by plastic extending 10 feet from work area—plastic anchored to building and
weighed down by heavy objects (exteriors)
	Vertical contaimnent installed if property line prevents 10 feet of ground covering, or if necessary to prevent
migration of dust and debris to adjacent property (exteriors)
	 Waste contained on-site and while being transported off-site.
	 Work site properly cleaned after renovation
	All chips and debris picked up, protective sheeting misted, folded dirty side inward, and taped for removal
	Work area surfaces and objects cleaned using HEPA vacuum and/or wet cloths or mops (interiors)
	 Certified renovator performed post-renovation cleaning verification (describe results, including the
number of wet and dry cloths used): 	
	If dust clearance testing was performed instead, attach a copy of report
	 I certify under penalty of law that the above information is true and complete.
Name and title	Date
Posting warning signs
Maintaining contaimnent
Waste handling
	Setting up plastic containment barriers
Avoiding spread of dust to adjacent areas
_ Post-renovation cleaning
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^tD sr%

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Where Can I Get Copies of the Lead Pamphlet?
For single copies, in Spanish or English, of The Lead-Safe Certified Guide to Renovate Right: Important
Lead Hazard Information for Families, Child Care Facilities and Schools (EPA-740-K-10-001), call the
National Lead Information Center (NLIC) at 1-800-424-LEAD. For any orders, be sure to use the appro-
priate stock reference number listed above.
There are four ways to get multiple copies:
1. Obtain downloadable copies (PDF) from the EPA website at
www.ei)a.gov/lead/i)ubs/brochure.htm.
2. Call the Government Printing Office (GPO) Order Desk at
(202)512-1800.
3. Order from the GPO Bookstore at
httn:/7hookstore.gno.gov/cnvironmeiit
4. Request copies in writing from:
U.S. GPO
P.O. Box 979050
St. Louis, MO 63197-9000
The pamphlet may be photocopied for distribution as long as the text
and graphics are readable.
Paperwork Reduction Act Notice: The incremental public burden for the collection of information contained in the Lead
Renovation, Painting and Repair Program, which are approved under OMB Control No. 2070-0155 and identified under
EPA ICR No. 1715, is estimated to average approximately 54 hours per year for training providers. For firms engaged in
regulated renovation, repair, and painting activities, the average incremental burden is estimated to be about 6.5 hours per
year. Comments regarding this burden estimate or any other aspect of this collection of information, including suggestions
for reducing the burden, may be sent to: Director, Collection Strategies Division, Office of Environmental Information,
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (Mail Code 2822T), 1200 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20460.
Include the OMB number identified above in any correspondence. Do not send any completed form(s) to this address. The
actual information or fonn(s) should be submitted in accordance with the instructions accompanying the form(s), or as
specified in the corresponding regulations.
29

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NOTICE
This guide was prepared pursuant to section 212 of the Small Business Regulatory
Enforcement Fairness Act of 1996 (SBREFA), Pub. L. 104-121. THIS DOCUMENT
IS NOT INTENDED, NOR CAN IT BE RELIED UPON, TO CREATE ANY RIGHTS
ENFORCEABLE BY ANY PARTY IN LITIGATION WITH THE UNITED STATES.
The statements in this document are intended solely as guidance to aid you in complying
with the Lead-Based Paint Renovation, Repair, and Painting Program requirements in 40
CFR 745, Subpart E. EPA may decide to revise this guide without public notice to reflect
changes in EPA's approach to implementing the Lead-Based Paint Renovation, Repair, and
Painting Program or to clarify and update text. To determine whether EPA has revised this
guide and/or to obtain copies, contact EPA's Small Business Ombudsman at 202-566-2075,
or contact the National Lead Information Center at l-800-424-LEAD(5323), or on the
web at www.ena.pov/leatl/nubs/nlic.htin.
\>EPA
United States
Environmental Protectior
Agency
1-800-424-LEAD (5323)
www.en a. go v/lead
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