Georgia Authorized to Implement the Lead Renovation Program
Pesticides and Toxic Chemicals News Release (Region 4): Georgia Authorized to Implement the Lead Renovation Program
On July 5, 2011, the State of Georgia received authorization to administer and
enforce EPA’s Lead Renovation, Repair, and Painting (RRP) Program. The authorization became effective upon EPA’s
receipt of the State’s certified Renovation Authorization Application which was
submitted by Georgia Governor Nathan Deal. Attorney General, Sam Olens has
certified that the Georgia Program, which will be administered by the Georgia
Environmental Protection Division is at least as protective as EPA’s and
provides adequate enforcement.
“EPA appreciates
Georgia’s leadership in protecting kids from exposure to lead-based paint,” said
Gwen Keyes Fleming, Regional Administrator for EPA Region 4. “Because lead
exposure can cause permanent, serious, life-long problems, renovators and rental
property owners play a big role part in shielding children from its impact in
their homes.”
The RRP program
mandates that contractors, property managers and others working for
compensation, in homes and child-occupied facilities built before 1978, must be
trained and use lead-safe work practices. They are also required to provide the
lead pamphlet “Renovate Right; Important
Lead Hazard Information for Families, Child Care Providers and Schools” to
owners and occupants before starting renovation work.
Lead contaminated
dust is the most significant source of lead exposure for 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.