EPA Clarification on Testing

[ChrWright]

http://www.naahq.org/SiteCollectionDocuments/Govt%20Affairs/NAA-NMHC-NLHA-Lee-reply-02232010.pdf


This letter makes an important distinction between the testing protocols for lead inspectors/risk accessors and certified renovators.

Those who are considering having a third party test for lead before a renovation should take note.

[Silvertree]

That test by the way can run from $300 to over $2000 depending on what you ask to be done.

Say you pay $400 for testing and you have lead, this doesn't mean lead is in the home but you did find it on the brickmold outside. So now you add another $100 per window for 16 windows, or $2000.

At the home show I'm at 3 window guys I talked to said $100 to $150 per window more or about 15% more after the rule goes into effect.

[ChrWright]

I'm concerned about labs marketing their lead testing services to firms doing work under the RRP Rule--who as noted don't receive training in sampling protocols.

[SLS-Construction]

They already tried this here on RC & I think on CT about 2 months ago. The other thing people must take into account is that if "any lead" is found you automatically are under the OSHA rules, even if it is below the EPA's acceptable standards. That is automatically going to cost you at least $300 for the first day monitoring & shower facilities you must provide until the results come back that night saying your below the action levels.

[ChrWright]

They already tried this here on RC & I think on CT about 2 months ago. The other thing people must take into account is that if "any lead" is found you automatically are under the OSHA rules, even if it is below the EPA's acceptable standards. That is automatically going to cost you at least $300 for the first day monitoring & shower facilities you must provide until the results come back that night saying your below the action levels.

How much is the worker air sampling equipment? Anyone already own this? Paulie?

[SLS-Construction]

http://www.zefon.com/store/personal-air-sampling-pumps/ they start at 189 (not sure if that one qualifies per OSHA though)- the cassetes are what add to the cost. For many people they might look into a lab that rents out the equipment & can get them the answer to the amount of airborne LEAD that night

[ChrWright]

http://www.environmental-expert.com/resultEachPressRelease.aspx?cid=21001&codi=155153

I know these folks are a member here, and I mean no disrespect in this:

I think a distinction needs to be made about the testing services being offered to firms doing work under the RRP Rule. Being able to test individual components like trim or cabinets is a valuable tool. I.E.- proving there's no lead in specific items being worked on.

But I see contractors getting into serious trouble trying to clear an entire room or house as "lead free" by taking samples themselves and using a third party lab. That's beyond the scope of what you are trained and certified to do.