(Kansas City, Kan., March 10, 2010) - Iowa has become the second state in the country to be federally authorized to administer and enforce the federal Lead-based Paint Renovation, Repair and Painting (RPP) program. Wisconsin was the first state to be certified.
The Renovation, Repair and Painting rule mandates training and certification in lead-safe work practices for construction contractors, property managers and others that work in homes and child-occupied facilities built before 1978. Governor Chet Culver has certified Iowa's program as it will be administered by the Iowa Department of Public Health. States have to certify that their programs are at least as protective as EPA's and provide adequate enforcement.
"Iowa's proactive approach to prevent lead poisoning will allow Iowa citizens to be more aware of the dangers and protect children from lead-based paint hazards in their homes," said Regional Administrator Karl Brooks.
Effective April 22, 2010, anyone performing renovations or repairs for compensation must be trained and certified, and follow lead safe work practices. Because lead-based paint in the home is a major cause of childhood lead poisoning, the RRP rule places new requirements on property management companies, landlords, contractors, renovators and painters for lead safe work practices to reduce the lead exposure of children.
Common renovation activities like sanding, cutting and demolition can create hazardous lead dust and chips by disturbing lead-based paint, which can be harmful to adults and children. Lead-based paint was used in more than 38 million homes until it was banned for residential use in 1978.
Lead exposure can cause reduced IQ, learning disabilities, development delays and behavioral problems in young children.
Learn more about protecting your family from lead-based paint and EPA's lead program at http://www.epa.gov/lead or by contacting the National Lead Information Center at 800-424-LEAD (5323).
For more information about Iowa's new program, including information on applying for certification or training, contact the Iowa Bureau of Lead Poisoning Prevention at (515) 281-3479 or 1-800-972-2026, or visit the state Web site at http://www.idph.state.ia.us/
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