The Broome County Health Department partnered with Broome-Tioga BOCES to bring specialized “lead renovator” training to students in BOCES’ carpentry program.The eight-hour training session is designed to educate participants about lead-based paint in older homes. Topics covered include why lead-based paint is a problem during home renovations, what the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) requires of those working in homes built before 1978, how to work in a lead-safe way, and how to protect workers and occupants of the home during renovations.
In 2010, the EPA instituted renovation, repair and painting laws that require training for anyone receiving compensation for work that disturbs paint in homes built before 1978. In addition to painters, carpenters, electricians, roofers, window installers, and others need to know how to work safely.
Lead can cause serious health and developmental problems. Young children and pregnant women are especially vulnerable to lead, which is a neurotoxin. Lead can cause irreversible changes to the brain, leading to cognitive disabilities, behavioral issues and even violent behavior.
Broome County has active lead poisoning prevention programs and hosts lead renovator classes at the Broome County Health Department every month for a fee. Contractors and others wanting to know how to work safely on older homes can call 607-778-2847 for more information.
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