Fazzolari Custom Homes & Renovations is proud to announce that we have been recently certified in the prevention of lead contamination by the Environmental Protection Agency.

The certification is in response to an April 22, 2010 EPA deadline that requires contractors performing renovation, repair and painting projects that disturb more than six square feet of paint in homes, child care facilities, and schools built before 1978 must be certified and trained to follow specific work practices to prevent lead contamination.

Prior to 1978, builders commonly used lead paint for interiors and exteriors of homes. Now, 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. Children under the age of 6 are especially vulnerable. According to the EPA, exposure to lead paint, either by inhaling dust or ingesting chips or contaminated dirt, can affect children’s brains and developing nervous systems, causing reduced IQ, learning disabilities, and behavioral problems.

We Received Training in How to Safely Handle Lead Paint

To receive our certification we had a take training in the safe handling of lead paint. Among the precautions we will need to take if we are working on a home built before 1978 are:

• Test the areas we are planning to renovate for lead.
• Completely seal the areas where we will be working.
• Keep dust creating activities to a minimum (sanding can be an especially big problem).
• Use a HEPA vacuum http://www.gohepa.com/details.cfm?id=94 for clean-up.
• Give workers respirators designed to filter lead dust (the ones from the paint supply store won’t cut it).
• Dispose of the lead properly.

Remember, protect your family and make sure you only hire a contractor who is in a Lead-Safe Certified Firm.

Do It Yourself – Lead Disposal Tips for Home Renovations

If you are a homeowner performing renovation, repair, or painting work in your own home, EPA’s RRP rule does not cover your project. However, you have the ultimate responsibility for the safety of your family or children in your care. If you are living in a pre-1978 home and planning to do painting or repairs, please read a copy of EPA’s Renovate Right: Important Lead Hazard Information for Families, Child Care Providers, and Schools (PDF). Renovators also are required to give you a copy of this pamphlet before they begin work.

Lead-Safe Links:

Find a Lead-Safe Certified Firm near you.

Read about EPA’s requirements for renovation, repair and painting.