Recent renovation of a doctor’s x-ray room… note the drywall dust, reciprocating saw, and the sheets of lead… put the clues together. What might you also find? (Photo: Jan Thomas)
Sometimes I choose topics for this blog when the same issue crosses my desk or my awareness three times or more in close proximity. Lead exposure in the workplace is the most recent example.
A new EPA requirement came into effect on April 22, 2010. It impacts any contractor doing renovation, repairs and painting in pre-1978 housing or child-occupied facilities. The focus seems very specific and might not apply to all contractors. However, no one is turning down work today and renovation of existing spaces & LEED are up-swing trends so, just in case, we’ve been making sure all of our contractor clients know about this rule. See the Lead-Renovation Rule.
And then it became personal. I’ve just bought an historic house (read built in the late 1900’s and in need of some repair). During the last few weeks we’ve had interior reframing and repainting done. Even though I knew about the new rule, I saw how it might be applied to and impact small renovation companies.
But as I hope everyone knows, this renovation rule from EPA is only one of many such federal and state requirements. We also need to be aware of OSHA lead standards. The above photo from a recent audit shows the cutting and installation of lead-lined drywall. The company and their drywall sub were quick to respond when we discussed potential exposure.
And then today I dropped off a family heirloom stained glass window that needed repair and I ended up walking around the artist’s studio talking about lead exposures – yes, lead is still used and there was a lot of it with what looked like all the correct controls. So you see why I have lead on my mind. Be safe out there! Jan
