Lead Certification Maine - EPA Renovator Training

Regardless of where you go in the US, the EPA regulations for lead certification are at the forefront of most programs. This is especially true in Maine, which allows the EPA to take the lead on certification.

By using EPA-certified courses and following the guidelines set by the federal government, Maine has some of the easiest lead certification procedures. The state does require yearly renewal. You’ll have to undergo refresher courses regularly to keep up to date with the latest information.

If you think you might need a lead certification, or want to know more about the process, read on.

Who Needs a Maine Lead Certification

Anyone doing renovation work on older buildings should have a lead certification before beginning work. It’s not just about the paperwork. It’s about being trained to prevent lead poisoning.

However, only professionals are required to have a certificate on hand. If your renovation meets the following criteria, seek out a lead certified professional before beginning work.

disturbing more than six square feet of painted surfaces indoors
disturbing more than 20 square feet of painted surfaces outdoors
window replacement or demolition in housing, childcare facilities, and schools built before 1978
any Lead Abatement activity

These are the standards outlined by the EPA for determining if a project requires a special certification to help prevent lead poisoning and exposure. If a project meets these standards, notice must be filed with the Maine Department of Environmental Protection.

Additionally, once work has begun, there must be a lead abatement contractor on site during the work days provided in the notice. This helps prevent any accidents.

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Training must be provided by the EPA or an EPA accredited organization. There are some EPA-authorized state and tribal programs that can also provide accreditation to organizations throughout the US.

While the EPA specifically calls attention to buildings built before 1978, there are other lead hazards that can crop up in newer buildings. It’s best to test before beginning work so you have peace of mind.

You may want to consider getting your lead certification, so you’re prepared in case it ever comes up in new or old buildings.

How to Get a Maine Lead Certification

EPA-certified trainings are valid throughout the US, so you can find one that’s closest to you and still use it for your Maine lead certification application. Currently, there are only in-person trainings available.

When applying for the initial certification, you need to file your application along with any certificates you’ve received. This proves that you’ve successfully completed the required training and you’re able to safely work around lead.

It’s important to be certified, not only to protect yourself, but also to protect your clients. If you’re ready to start the certification process, click here to find the closest EPA-certified training.

Renewing Your Maine Lead Certification

Individual lead certification must be renewed yearly in Maine. To renew, you must provide a certificate of completion of a continuing education or refresher course. For lead abatement workers, the 8-hour refresher course is only available in-person.

By attending refresher courses regularly, you’ll be kept up-to-date with the latest laws and regulations. You’ll also learn about any new abatement procedures that will make removing lead hazards safer than ever for you and your clients.

If it’s been a year since you got your initial certification and you’re ready for renewal, click here to find out more about EPA-certified trainings in your area.

Firm Lead Certifications in Maine

Maine requires contractor firms to file for certification separately from individuals. Once certified, businesses must keep their certification on-site and provide it within 24 hours of a request to provide it. By keeping it on-hand, you reassure potential clients you’re more than qualified to help them.

The fee for filing is $275.

In addition to the Maine certification, firms must file for certification with the EPA. While the firm certification does not remove the requirement for individual certifications, it ensures that there is proper oversight every step of the way.

Firm lead certifications must be renewed every five years. The renewal process proves that your firm is staying up to date with the current laws and regulations and any violations are tracked. Renewal fees are currently $550.

Failure to comply with the regulations can incur fines of up to $37,500 per violation, per day until the project is brought into compliance.

Laws and Regulations in Maine

The laws regulating lead certification have been in effect since 1997 and can be found under Title 38, Chapter 12-B: Lead Abatement.

Title 22, Chapter 252: Lead Poisoning Control Act was enacted in 1972 and outlines the laws regarding inspection, notice, and removal of lead paint and other lead hazards. The guidance on licensure was eventually repealed and replaced by Title 38, Chapter 12-B.

The Maine state laws dictate the basics for certification as well as outline guidance for testing and health care professionals who suspect lead poisoning. EPA guidelines are outlined in Title 40, Code of Federal Regulations, Part 745, and provide the bulk of the guidance for lead hazard removal and abatement in Maine.

You’ll want to verify that you’re in compliance with all laws before beginning any work. You also must provide notice to the Maine Department of Environmental Protection Lead and Asbestos Hazard Prevention Program at least five working days before beginning any work.