On January 1st, 2010, new legislation became effective to create the North Carolina Lead-Based Paint Hazard Management Program. Shortly thereafter, a letter was sent to all jurisdictions explaining the program and the requirements of the legislation. Based on that letter, we have gotten several calls asking about the building inspectors’ responsibilities in enforcing these requirements.
The legislation makes clear that responsibility for enforcement of the new rules, which include certification of persons working with lead-based paint as part of certain renovation projects, is left to the Health Hazards Control Unit (HHCU), a Division within the NC Department of Health and Human Services. Further, contractors have a responsibility to obtain proper certifications for the type of work they perform. However, the Code Enforcement Official is also responsible for the public welfare and is in a unique position to be helpful with enforcement.
It is therefore our recommendation that jurisdictions provide assistance whenever they can. Certainly notify the HHCU if you are aware of a violation involving renovations in a home or child occupied facility built prior to 1978. If your jurisdiction has a large number of older homes being renovated, it could be helpful to familiarize yourself with the legislation to aid in spotting violations. It might also be a good idea to post information about the law if you have a public information bulletin board.
Included below is a press release regarding the new legislation from the HCCU, which includes their contact information. They are ready to answer any questions you may have about the new requirements.
New Lead-Based Paint Regulation in Effect in North Carolina
In April of 2008, the Environmental Protection Agency issued a new rule aimed at protecting children from lead-based paint hazards in places they frequent. The rule applies to renovation, repair and painting activities in housing and child-occupied facilities built prior to 1978. The rule was fully effective by April 22, 2010.
North Carolina now has a new law. North Carolina’s Lead Hazard Management Program (LHMP) for Lead-Based Paint Renovation, Repair and Painting (RR&P) Rule became effective January 1, 2010. In North Carolina, the Health Hazards Control Unit (HHCU), certifies firms and renovators who perform renovations in housing and child-occupied facilities built before 1978, and accredits training courses and training providers who wish to teach the required renovator and/or dust sampling technician courses for certification purposes.
These rules require that contractors performing renovation, repair and painting activities provide the “Renovate Right: Important Lead Hazard Information for Families, Child Care Providers, and Schools” lead hazard information pamphlet to the owner/occupant before the renovation begins and follow specific lead safe work practices.
To get more information on this new rule, visit our web site:
North Carolina Lead-Based Paint Hazard Management Program http://www.epi.state.nc.us/epi/lead/lhmp.html
The NC Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), Division of Public Health, Health Hazards Control Unit (HHCU) can be contacted by calling (919) 707-5950.