Uninformed and Nervous Neighbors Will Keep RRP Renovators On Their Toes

Awareness about lead and the potential effects of lead poisoning may not yet be prevalent with the public, but it will quickly increase.  Renovators need to deal with this reality in a proactive way.  Training and firm certification are great first steps.  But, renovators will need to do much more to protect their businesses from potential challenges and liabilities triggered by an uniformed public.

First, the EPA’s public awareness campaign has already begun.  The campaign warns people of the dangers of lead, but does little to make them aware of the RRP rule, the need to work with renovators who are certified in lead-safe work practices, and or how to find a certified firm to oversee work on the homes they live in.  So, in effect, the campaign warns the public but leaves them basically ignorant of their options. (Click on the sample ad to the left to view in full size)

Second, the warning signs and barriers required to be put in place around exterior and common area containment areas will have a similar effect of raising concern.  Unless properly educated about their options and about lead-safe work practices, neighbors and the parents of children attending child occupied facilities will again suffer from ignorance about lead.  Many will likely react out of fear.   This fear may potentially result in reporting a renovator and causing an inspection, even if the renovation work is being done within compliance. 

Remember, as a business you are guilty until you prove yourself innocent at your own expense.  An OSHA and or RRP inspector will likely be able to find at least one violation of some rule if they show up at one of your jobsites.  Some inspectors may even feel it is their obligation to find a violation.  The cost to defend yourself might be as high as the cost of any fines, so even if you win you lose. In Massachusetts, the Department of Occupational Safety (DOS) is already collaborating with OSHA regarding what to do if either finds a violation that should be referred to the other.  Oh, and don’t forget those neighbors who have a bone to pick with your customer, have nothing else to do all day, and or are just plain paranoid.