EPA Seeks Public Comment on Lead-Safe Work Practices

EPA is seeking public comment on the proposed work practice standards to reduce exposures to lead hazards in light of two new lead dust studies. Once the agency reviews the public comments, it will determine if any changes to the proposed rule are warranted.

The studies include one conducted by EPA, “Characterization of Dust Lead Levels after Renovation, Repair, and Painting Activities,” and a second study conducted by the National Association of Home Builders, “Lead-Safe Work Practices Survey Project.” EPA’s study was designed to compare the amount of lead dust remaining after the use of the proposed lead-safe work practices and after clean-up with the amount of lead dust remaining after typical work practices. The National Association of Home Builders study was intended to assess whether routine renovation activities increase lead dust levels. The EPA lead study also will be peer reviewed by the Clean Air Scientific Advisory Committee this summer.

In support of the Federal government’s goal of eliminating childhood lead poisoning as a major public health concern by 2010, EPA proposed a rule on Jan. 10, 2006, establishing requirements to protect residents of pre-1978 housing units from lead hazards due to renovation, repair, and painting activities. The proposed rule introduces new training and work practice requirements to reduce exposure to lead hazards created by renovation, repair, and painting activities that disturb lead-based paint.