Lead certification and related issues in the Sunflower State are handled by the Healthy Homes and Lead Hazard Prevention program, which is overseen by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment. HHLHPP funding is provided by the EPA as well as fees from in-state certification and licensing.
Lead certification is designed to protect workers and the general public from lead-related hazards. Strict protocols are used on the job site to prevent contact, inhalation and other exposure to lead in paint, dust and other materials.
Certification is a two-step process. First, you’ll attend an EPA-accredited training course. After completing the course, you’ll apply for certification.
Why Do I Need Lead Certification in Kansas?
The Renovation, Repair, and Painting (RRP) rule requires at least one lead-certified staff member be present on every lead-contaminated job site. Certified individuals are responsible for ensuring safe working conditions. Many different people benefit from certification including:
Independent Contractors
Contractors need certification before working on any site which potentially contains lead-based paint, which includes any location built before 1978 (the last year lead paint was legal).
Once certified, the contractor is then responsible for all lead-safe practices on the job site. They’ll need to oversee the use of safety equipment, monitor debris removal and otherwise ensure all other workers understand best practices.
Renovators
As the main workers on a job site, renovators need to make sure they understand proper safety protocols. Once certified, renovators are then responsible for keeping working conditions safe at all times. If the renovator is the only certified member of the crew, he or she will need to be present on the job site during all work hours.
Companies
Businesses which employ contractors, renovators, managers or other employees who are likely to come in contact with lead paint must be lead certified. Companies don’t take training courses, but they do need to apply for certification online. Additionally, the company must display their EPA certification on the job site at all times.
Property Managers
Property managers and staff who perform building maintenance require training and certification. Any managers who oversee construction, renovation or other work in areas likely to contain lead must also be certified. Additionally, property managers must also ensure any hired parties are certified as appropriate (at least one certified person on the job site at all times).
Homeowners
You don’t have to be a professional to require certification. You’ll need certification if you’re working on any area inside your home larger than six square feet or outside your home larger than 20. However, you don’t need certification if you’re not doing the work yourself and are hiring a contractor instead. Of course, the contractor you hire does need to be certified.
Are You Ready to Become Lead Certified in Kansas?
First, there’s no need to feel nervous. The state of Kansas and the federal government both want people to understand how to work around lead safely. The certification process is designed to be straight-forward and worker-friendly.
Before you can be certified, you’ll need to attend an accredited training program. You should be able to find a class near you which fits your schedule. The class is typically eight hours long. It’ll be held in a classroom setting and have lots of hands-on work.
After completing the class, you’ll take a final exam. It’ll consist of anywhere from 25 to 100 questions. You’ll need to answer 70 percent of the questions correctly to pass. However, you can retake the test right away if you fail.
After passing the exam, you can then apply for certification through the EPA website. You’ll need to submit proof you’ve successfully passed the training course. Your instructor provides this proof.
Once you’re certified, you’re ready to work. Be sure and display your certification on the job site at all times.
Don’t risk fines! Get your Lead Paint Certification now!
Are Refresher Courses Available?
Lead certifications are valid for five years – and you don’t want to let your certification expire. If it does, you’ll have to attend the eight-hour training course again and then re-apply for certification. It can seem like a big waste of time and money.
Lead refresher courses are the cheaper and faster option. They’re available within six months of your certification expiration date. Refresher courses offer a condensed version of the standard training program. Once completed, your certification is valid for another five years.
RRP Rule Enforcement in Kansas
Kansas monitors lead abatement and RRP programs through the Healthy Homes and Lead Hazard Prevention Program. While the program follows all EPA standards, enforcement is handled locally instead of through the Department of Justice.
But this certainly doesn’t mean enforcement is lax. Anyone found in violation of RRP rules faces serious punishments including work shutdown, business closure and fines totaling tens of thousands of dollars.
Six Steps to Lead Certification in Kansas
- Learn what the certification process involves. (You’re completing this step right now!)
- Attend an eight-hour accredited training course.
- Answer 70% or more of the questions on the final exam correctly.
- Receive proof you’ve successfully passed the class.
- Apply for certification online via the EPA website.
- Display certification at the job site.
Helpful Links Related to Lead Safety in Kansas
Looking to learn more about lead safety in KS? The following national and state links have additional information about the certification process and related issues:
- Kansas Department of Health and Environment
- Kansas Healthy Homes and Lead Hazard Prevention Program
- HHLHPP Lead Training Classes
- EPA Lead Programs
Do You Still Have Questions about Lead Certification in Kansas?
Failure to follow proper safety protocols can result in lost income and, even worse, a lifetime of health problems. Always reach out for help if you’re not sure about any issue related to certification or safety. Our expert team is available to answer any questions about lead certification in Kansas.