The EPA has extended the compliance deadline for the Lead Renovation Repair and Painting Rule to October 1. CEDIA is encouraging its members to avoid fines by getting certified.

A company could receive fines of up to $37,500 if not certified.

A business is affected by this rule if it performs certain types of work in structures that may contain lead paint. Covered structures include homes built before 1978 as well as pre-1978 buildings occupied by children under age six or by pregnant women.

Applicable work includes renovation, repair, or painting that disturbs more than six square feet on an interior wall or 20 square feet on an exterior wall, as well as any replacement of doors or windows.

CEDIA is offering a two-part Lead Renovator Course to help fulfill certification requirements. Part I is available online only and must be completed before hands-on training can be taken.

Part I will help electronic systems contractors learn the basics of lead safety, testing, and containment.

Part II will give ESCs the opportunity to demonstrate what they have learned. At the end of part II, the certification exam will be administered. Participants must score a minimum of 80 percent to achieve certification. Firms seeking certification must also complete an application with the EPA. 

CEDIA has added dates for part II of the lead renovator training at ADI locations across the country; click here for a full list of current scheduled trainings.

Part II training and certification will also be available at CEDIA EXPO.