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Lead Certification SC provides detailed information pertaining to EPA Lead Paint Regulations in the State of South Carolina. Contractors must follow lead-safe work practices for any project being performed that disturbs or has the potential to disturb lead-based paint in buildings built prior to 1978. These buildings target where children under the age of six may be at and include homes, child care facilities, pre-schools and elementary schools.
In the state of South Carolina, lead-safe practices includes making sure your workers have been trained and certified as a lead renovator by an EPA approved training provider. South Carolina lets the EPA regulate renovation projects that have the potential for lead exposure. The Renovation, Repair and Paint Law (RRP) was written by the EPA and is the primary regulation for contractors to follow when doing this type of work. However, there usually are local and state laws that regulate these projects as well. Please remember when multiple laws are involved, the most strict regulations apply. In addition to training, contractors must certify their company and follow rigorous procedures to prevent lead contamination. Contractors must also thoroughly document their projects as the EPA can audit any company up to 3 years back.
The following informational resources are intended to help you comply on the local, state and federal level with the regulatory guidelines when work involves lead-based paint. Failure to comply with the EPA’s strict RRP Regulations could end up costing your thousands in fines and possible loss of your business.
Ready to get your Lead Paint Certification?
Additional focus is placed on the Environmental Protection Agency’s requirements regarding lead certification. Some city, county and state agencies have developed their own specific requirements regarding lead certification for contractors. Therefore, you should always know the laws where you are working and make sure you are following the rules that cover your specific work.
We recommend you follow the RRP Rule and all regulatory agency laws that govern the work you are performing. Doing so will help ensure you are in compliance with all rules and regulations pertaining to your project. This is the best way to help avoid fines and protect your business.
Who is required to have a Lead Certification?
- Independent Contractors of all sizes: If performing work on a building that was built prior to 1978 or that could have the potential to contain lead-based paint. All contractors, licensed or not, must obtain a lead certification.
Once an individual has successfully attended an EPA-approved training program, they will be known as a Certified Renovator. When they are designated to be in charge of a project, they will be responsible for making sure all workers under their direction receive training on lead-safe work practices. In addition, they will play a significant role in providing guidance on constructing the work area containment and cleaning the work space, tools and equipment.
- Companies/Firms: All companies, also known as Firms, that intend to come into contact with lead paint must submit an application and register with the EPA. If you are unsure about the projects you do, it’s better to be on the safe side and register. The bottom line is if you work in these older properties, ones that are 1977 or older, then you must submit your application. Every company must have their employees attend EPA-approved training classes and be on site to answer questions and provide information regarding lead-based paint.
- Property Managers: Property managers are really no different than contractors in regards to the Lead RRP Law. If you or your staff are doing the work, then you will need to follow the rule and attend training and get certification.
- Home owners: If you don’t plan to do the work yourself, you still have responsibility. At minimum, confirm that your contractor is a certified renovator. You can verify this information by asking your contractor for certification or simply go to the EPA website and view for yourself. If you plan to do some of the work and hire some of it out, then you must receive approved training as well.
Are you Ready to Attend Training and Become a Lead Safe Renovator?
Lead renovator certification courses are valid for five years but can vary between states. If you work in more than one state, you should verify you are complying with all lead safety practices by viewing all rules.
Click here to search Initial Renovator Courses in South Carolina.
Previously Trained and Need a Lead Safe Certification Refresher Course to Renew?
If you have previously attended an approved training course then you know the value of the EPA enforced certification program. New developments in best safe work practices continue to advance over each year. Attend a Lead Safe Certification Refresher Course today to help ensure you and your employees are using the safest possible work procedures.
Click here for available listing of local Refresher Courses.
RRP Law Guidance in South Carolina
Although South Carolina may have some local laws of their own, the state still relies on the EPA as the primary rule maker for work sites that have the potential to come in contact with lead-based paint. These rules cover any work where hazards may occur during renovation projects, repair work, or painting types of activities.
The Environmental Protection Agencies law came into effect on April 22, 2010. It has since been the primary rule throughout the United States for lead paint compliance work. Some states have adopted and enforce the rule on their own. The EPA continues to enforce it for states that have not adopted the rule like South Carolina.
Who Enforces the RRP Rule in South Carolina?
The EPA created the RRP Rule and made it effective on April 22, 2010. Again, this is the primary law for contractors to follow but there may be local laws that apply to individual work sites. Always check for specific rules in the areas you are working in.
The EPA still enforces the rule in the state of South Carolina. Contractors, property managers and homeowners are all required to comply with the EPA’s RRP Rule and any local laws if you are doing lead related work.
Please visit the EPA website for up to date information regarding the RRP Rule Environmental Protection Agency’s website.
EPA Lead Certification Requirements in South Carolina
The Lead Renovation, Repair and Painting Rule created by the EPA requires both individual and firm certification in South Carolina. Make sure you receive your EPA Lead Certification provided by an EPA-approved training course. This will help guarantee you will learn the most up to date work practices available regarding lead-based hazards.
Steps for Lead Paint Certification in South Carolina
- Register and complete a 1-day EPA-approved Lead Training Course.
- Receive your training certificate and maintain a copy at the work site.
- Submit an application to the EPA to certify your company.
- Receive your company certificate from the EPA.
- Renew your certifications before they expire to stay in compliance.
Don’t risk fines and penalties! Get your Lead Paint Certification now!
Useful Links and Resources for Compliance in South Carolina
The following helpful resources provided by Lead Certification SC are intended to help contractors performing lead related work in South Carolina. These resources will help ensure you are in compliance with renovation, repair, and painting rules in your area. Please note that this is not a complete listing of all rules. They are provided to help you with your search in the area you will be working in. You are encouraged to follow all laws or you could be putting yourself at risk of fines or potential loss of business.
Larger governing agencies in South Carolina may have lead requirements and rules specific to their location. These may include Rock Hill, Spartanburg, Greenville, Columbia, Florence, Myrtle Beach, Charleston, Hilton Head and more. It is recommended to check before beginning work.
Environmental Protection Agency – Lead Program
South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control
Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention and Control Act
Lead Poisoning Services for Greenville County, South Carolina
Charleston South Carolina Housing Authority
North Charleston Housing Authority
South Carolina Association of Counties
Charleston County South Carolina Environmental Management
City of Columbus SC Community Development
Have Questions about Lead Certification SC?
If you still are unsure if you are required to attend a lead certification course or how to register for one, don’t hesitate to contact us. Call ZOTA Professional Training at 763-444-5323 today and we will help you through the process.