EPA Revises Lead Paint Rules For Building Renovations

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) will not require dust wipe tests under the Renovation, Repair and Painting Rule (RRP Rule) in connection with work that disturbs lead-based paint in pre-1978 housing and facilities serving children under six. The revised RRP Rule was effective on October 4, 2011. EPA has announced it will increase enforcement of the lead paint rules and has begun assessing penalties under the RRP Rule.   

In May 2010, EPA proposed several revisions to the RRP Rule, including requiring dust wipe testing after certain types of renovations to demonstrate that remaining dust lead levels are below clearance levels.  After receiving over 300 comments, EPA decided not to impose these requirements, concluding that the work practices already established in the RRP Rule are "reliable, effective, and safe." EPA said its decision is consistent with the original intent of the RRP Rule: renovators should address the lead-based paint hazards created