PHCC to Provide Contractors Responses to EPA Lead Edict

The Plumbing, Heating, Cooling Contractors Association (PHCC) will be submitting comments to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) that summarize PHCC members’ responses to a proposed regulation to reduce lead exposure in renovation and remodeling projects.
The association has analyzed the 300-page proposed rule, and is surveying its members to provide their input on how the rule will affect their operations. PHCC’s response will be submitted to the EPA by April 10.
“We think it will be extremely helpful for the EPA to hear what contractors think about this proposed regulation,” said PHCC Vice President of Government Relations Lake Coulson. “Our comments will assess the practicality of the requirements, and comment on whether portions are realistic, cost-effective and efficient. EPA has the statutory authority to issue such a rule; however, PHCC may be able to influence some of its requirements.”
The proposed regulation is part of EPA’s overall attempt to eliminate exposure to lead-based paint by 2010. An EPA rule requiring remodeling contactors to provide occupants with a brochure about the dangers of lead based paint already exists. The 2006 proposal adds a focus on the elimination of lead “dust” created as a result of remodeling performed on residences built prior to 1978. It is uncertain when it will go into effect.
The new regulation will require that:
--Owners and occupants receive new information on lead paint hazards before renovations/remodeling begin; and
--Persons or firms performing renovations have been properly trained and certified and will follow lead-safe practices during all phases of renovation, including prep and clean-up work.
There are many other areas of the rule that impact renovation contractors, such as new cleaning and clearance testing procedures. Exceptions include emergency renovations in target housing, and disruption of space less than 2 sq.ft.
The PHCC-National Association, formed in 1883, provides legislative advocacy, education and training to more than 4,000 plumbing and HVACR businesses and 79,500 technicians. Members of PHCC have access to a wide variety of services designed to increase their professionalism, grow their business and improve profitability. For more information, visit www.phccweb.org.