PROTECTING CHILDREN: CERTIFIED AND TRAINED FOR LEAD-BASED PAINT HAZARDS

Posted on August 20, 2010 by Bryan Companion, Risk Manager

Lead has long been recognized as a serious health hazard and, for years, was a common ingredient used in many construction materials, most notably lead paint.  The health risks related to lead exposure are particularly serious for young children.  In 1977 the use of lead paint was banned in the United States. In addition, OSHA and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) have strict requirements for contractors who disturb lead paint or materials suspected of containing lead.

Over the years The USEPA and OSHA have continually modified the lead paint standards and requirements. The latest change in the law requires certification for contractors performing lead based paint renovation, repair, and painting activities for all work taking place in housing, child care, and school buildings.  While the requirement is restricted to the type of projects listed above, many current PC Construction clients have indicated that certification will be required for all contractors performing work for them.

Even though all lead-related work associated with our projects is subcontracted to abatement contractors, PC Construction is responsible for the proper and safe execution of the work.  As a result, our project teams must be aware of safety and disposal requirements associated with lead.

PC Construction has fulfilled all EPA requirements and received certification from the USEPA to perform this type of work. In addition to the certification, ten PC Construction professionals have completed training on disturbance of lead paint. This certification and PC Construction’s efforts to provide associated training goes hand-in-hand with our commitment to ensuring the safety and health of everyone connected to our projects, including those executing the work and those using the completed facility.