Massachusetts takes lead hazards seriously. Requiring yearly re-certification, the state government wants to ensure that workers and tenants are protected when they’re removing or renovating around lead hazards.
Lead is a poisonous material that requires special certifications to help prevent accidental exposure during removal or renovation. It was frequently used in paint up until 1978 and in pipes and solder until 1986. This means many older homes carry at least some risk of lead poisoning.
Massachusetts has some of the most thorough regulations regarding lead abatement, going further than most states to ensure the protection of workers and future tenants of the building.
Who Needs a Lead Certification in Massachusetts
The foundations for lead certification in Massachusetts are those laid out by the federal government. This means that the EPA information is still relevant, even when applying for certification in Massachusetts.
Any work that disturbs more than six square feet of painted surface per interior room or more than 20 square feet of paint on the exterior of the building must be carried out by a certified lead-safe renovation contractor. Further, lead-safe renovation contractors must have a trained and certified lead-safe renovation supervisor on site at all times.
There are two primary types of work that may disturb lead-based paint.
- deleading – work done to remove or abate lead hazards
- lead-safe renovation – renovation work that disturbs more than the threshold levels of paint, but is not carried out with the intention of abating lead hazards
Deleading work can be done voluntarily, or after receiving a legal notice to bring the building into compliance with Massachusetts state law.
The laws regulate both how much lead tenants can be exposed to, particularly children, as well as how the work is to be carried out.
Ready to get your Lead Paint Certification?
A lead-safe renovation is usually cosmetic, upgrade, or repair work that happens to disturb lead-based paint or other lead hazards. It’s defined as being done for a fee in pre-1978 buildings. While the goal isn’t to reduce lead hazards, it still disturbs enough lead-based paint to create a hazard.
Both types of work can be dangerous if not carried out by certified individuals. For homeowners looking to hire a lead-safe renovation contractor, there is a checklist to help walk you through the process and ensure that the work is done right. Homeowners shouldn’t attempt to undertake renovation projects on older homes by themselves.
It’s important to double-check before beginning work. While lead hazards are most common in older buildings, they can be present in newer buildings as well. You can do simple tests before you begin work to ensure you won’t run afoul of the laws due to negligence.
How to Get a Lead Certification in Massachusetts
Even with the strict laws in place, the EPA lead training certification is still the basis for certification in Massachusetts. This eight-hour program provides you with the background you need to do lead-safe renovation work or perform various deleading procedures.
By becoming certified, you can help bring clients into compliance with Massachusetts law and help reduce or even eliminate exposure for at-risk individuals, particularly children.
Get your lead certification today and protect you and your clients from accidental exposure. Find out where the closest training program is by clicking here.
Renewing a Massachusetts Lead Certification
Massachusetts requires contractors and firms to renew their certification yearly. This ensures that everyone is up to date with the latest laws as well as the recent updates to best practices.
Thankfully, it doesn’t take much time for the EPA certified lead training renewal. The renewal course is only four hours and can be completed online from the comfort of your own home or office.
It’s easy to renew your certification. You can find out where the closest in-person training is or learn more about the online trainings here.
Lead Certification for Firms in Massachusetts
Firms in Massachusetts must apply for certification directly with the state. Certifications are valid for one year before requiring renewal.
Part of the application process is certifying that your employees have the required trainings as well. Firm certification does not remove the need for individuals to successfully complete the lead certification training.
The application fee is currently $575.
For firms with employees, there are some additional forms and proof of insurance you need to send in with your application. Double-check you have everything you need before sending in your application. You wouldn’t want to be denied because you forgot a document!
This is different than the EPA certification. If your firm already has an EPA certification, you will need to apply for further certification through the state of Massachusetts.
Under specific circumstances, a contractor can apply for a temporary waiver to certification. Generally, this is only for personal work or if the firm has a current EPA certification on file. You can find out more about the exceptions that allow for a waiver here.
Even if you qualify for a waiver, you might want to consider undergoing training to ensure you are up to date with the latest best practices.
Laws and Regulations in Massachusetts
The Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program (CLPPP) laid out the requirements for deleading buildings under the Massachusetts Lead Law and 105 CMR 460.000. Further information on deleading can be found in 454 CMR 22.00, Deleading and Lead-Safe Renovation Regulations.
They are meant as supplements to the federal EPA requirements for lead hazard abatement and removal.
The laws detail requirements for worker’s compensation insurance and personal protection equipment. These regulations ensure that workers are safe while removing lead hazards from a building.
Steps for Becoming Massachusetts Lead Certified
Even with the in-depth regulations dictating certification, the state government has streamlined the process for being certified.
- Successfully complete an EPA-certified training
- Submit an application along with your certificate of completion
- Wait for your application to be processed and your certificate to be mailed to you
- Renew your application yearly after taking a refresher course
Additional Resources and Information on Lead
Lead-safe Renovation (Massachusetts)