Georgia Authorized to Implement the Lead Renovation Program (GA)
(ATLANTA – July 7, 2011) 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.
You can learn more about protecting your family
from lead-based paint and EPA’s lead program at https://www.epa.gov/lead or by contacting the National Lead Information Center
at 800-424-LEAD (5323).
For more information about Georgia’s new
program, including information on applying for certification or
locating training, contact the Georgia Environmental Protection
Division’s Lead-based Paint and Asbestos Program at
404-363-7026 or visit the state website at http://www.gaepd.org/documents/index
land.html.