Lead Paint Regulations

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By Kristen Kirchhaine

Story Published: Apr 16, 2010 at 11:30 PM MDT

Story Updated: Apr 19, 2010 at 11:33 AM MDT

BILLINGS - New EPA regulations are going into effect over the handling of lead paint. While most think it's a step in the right direction, there could be some growing pains for Montana contractors.

Construction workers from different vocations are going back to class in an effort to be certified for new EPA regulations. The mandatory 8-hour class teaches them how to properly handle and dispose of lead dust. Todd Kroft feels the changes are a step in the right direction.

"There are hazardous materials in some of these older houses, so we need to learn how to dispose of them properly and work around them properly to keep the clients safe," said Kroft.

A1 Painting's Tim Wiesner commented, "Lead is pretty serious stuff, and a lot of the kids are being affected adversely by the lead."

The law affects all businesses specializing in carpentry, door or window replacement or installation, plumbing, and painting. The cost of renovations are another aspect of the business that may be affected, but trainer Tim Ellis said that it will work to their advantage, "by using the techniques that are spelled out, they're going to increase their professionalism, and by increasing their professionalism they may come up ahead of the game."

The law goes into effect April 22nd. Congressman Denny Rehberg would like to see the start date pushed back to allow more time for people to get up to speed.

"Basically what happens is they go and wait, they might be waiting a couple months before EPA ultimately sends them back their certified renovator status," said Ellis.

This means up to 75% of companies in Montana won't be certified, making many worry about losing out on potential projects. It is estimated that nearly 300,000 homes in Montana were built before 1978 and contain lead paint.

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