Oklahoma has been authorized by the Environmental Protection Agency to control and manage their Renovation, Repair and Painting programs. Unlike the vast majority of states which are controlled by the EPA and the Department of Justice, Oklahoma is trusted by the federal government to ensure that citizens of the state are following the RRP ruling closely.
The RRP rule from 2010 requires that at least one member of staff on the job site has a certificate from the EPA at all times. This individual will be solely responsible for directing the workflow and ensuring that those working and nearby are operating safely so that they can reduce their exposure to lead.
The reason why you need to avoid lead is that even relatively low levels of exposure cause mental health problems, stomach cramps, sickness, and pain. Lead paint has been banned since 1978, but in buildings constructed before this, lead paint was incredibly familiar.
The problem with lead paint is that when it chips or is demolished, it turns into fine dust which can be easily inhaled by those on the job site and nearby. Inside of your lungs, the lead dust is absorbed into the body in high levels and can become very dangerous. To minimize this risk, it’s critical that employees work in a safe environment and can reduce the amount of lead exposure.
In the process of becoming certified you will be able to learn about the dangers of lead and what you must do to keep yourself and colleagues safe. These skills not only make you an invaluable commodity to an employer, but they also keep people safe from severe health issues.
Do I Need Lead Certification in Oklahoma?
According to the RRP rule, at least one member of staff on the premises must be certified by the EPA to work with lead hazards. This person is responsible for the safety of others. As a result, renovators, contractors, homeowners, and even project managers are often legally required to become certified.
You will need to become certified if you’re a(n):
Business: As a company, if you’re operating in or on properties that were built before 1978 and are therefore likely to have lead hazards, you’ll need to get a certificate for your business. Fortunately, this doesn’t require training or any significant effort; you can apply online within a few minutes.
Renovators: As a renovator, you’ll be directly exposed to lead, and therefore it’s important for you to legally become certified, as well as to undergo the required eight-hour training program to learn how you can care for your health and those around you. After completing the eight hours of training, you’ll need to pass a short examination and then with your proof of training in hand you can apply online to become certified.
Contractors: As an independent contractor you’ll be required to become certified, as well as ensuring that the companies you work for also have their business certificates. The process for a contractor is the same as for a renovator and will include an eight-hour long training course from an accredited provider.
Home Owners: If you’re working on your home you might mistakenly think that you don’t need a lead certification, but that’s not the truth. If you’re working inside of the house, areas larger than six-foot square will require certification, while outside a space bigger than twenty square foot will also demand that you become certified like a renovator.
Property Manager: If your job is to supervise and oversee construction work on buildings which are likely to have lead hazards, you will most likely be required to become certified so that you can ensure the safety of those near the building.
How to Become Certified in Oklahoma
To become legally certified to work on potential lead hazards in the State of Oklahoma, you must first complete an 8-hour training program from an accredited company. After this training period you’ll be able to take a final examination, and upon passing it, you will be able to apply for your certificate through the EPA website.
Don’t risk fines! Get your Lead Paint Certification now!
Can I Take a Refresher Course?
After five years your certificate will expire and should this happen you will be forced to start from scratch by completing the eight-hour course again. However, to prevent this, you can do a shorter refresher course to refresh your knowledge. Upon completion, you’ll be entitled to apply for a new five-year certificate and to continue your work.
To ensure that you can get a refresher certificate, it’s wise to do the training at least a month or more before the expiration date of your current certificate. Doing so will greatly reduce the chance of it expiring, leaving you out of pocket.
RRP Rule Enforcement in Oklahoma
Oklahoma has complete control over their RRP programs, and as a result, they are also entitled to enforce the RRP rule by themselves at the state level, rather than federally through the EPA and Department of Justice. Punishments can range from tens of thousands of dollars of fines to lost jobs and forced closures of businesses. To prevent this, it’s critical that you become certified before doing any renovation, repair or painting work on older buildings.
Steps to Becoming Lead Certified in Oklahoma
- Find out how to become lead certified
- Attend a local training program
- Complete the final examination
- Apply for certification through the EPA website
- Keep your certificate at the job site whenever you are working
Helpful Links for Compliance in Oklahoma
Understanding the dangers of lead and what the State of Oklahoma is doing to combat it can help you greatly as a contractor, homeowner or business person:
Still Have Questions About Lead Certification?
If you’re still confused about the process of becoming lead certified, feel free to get in contact with us. Our expert team will guide you through the process and help to ensure that you are legally protected before you start working.