Georgia Authorized to Implement the Lead Renovation Plan

(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 E.P.A. 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 plan 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 in excess of 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 plan at http://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 Plan at 404-363-7026 or visit the state website at http://www.gaepd.org/documents/index land.html.

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