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Public invited to comment on proposed lead-based paint rule

Release Date: 03/31/2006
Contact Information: Mark Merchant 415-947-4297, Enesta Jones 202-564-7873

SAN FRANCISCO, Calif-March 31, 2006 – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency will hold a public meeting Thursday, April 6 from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM (Pacific Standard Time) to receive comments from the public on a proposed federal rule for handling lead-based paint.

The meeting on the proposed Lead Renovation, Repair and Painting Program Rule will be held in the Phillip Burton Federal Building & U.S. Courthouse, Nevada/California Conference Rooms, 450 Golden Gate Ave., San Francisco, Calif. 94102.

The San Francisco meeting is one of five scheduled around the country during the comment period ending April 10. Other cities hosting the EPA meetings include: Washington, D.C.; New York City; Atlanta and Chicago.

The EPA is proposing some simple but effective work practices that can reduce potential exposure to dangerous levels of lead for residents, especially children. These work practice standards and training and certification requirements would apply to persons engaged in renovation, repair and painting activities that disturb lead-based paint in housing built before 1978.

The new proposal is one component of a comprehensive program that will also include training and an education and outreach campaign to promote lead-safe work practices. It will help to meet the goal of eliminating childhood lead poisoning as a major health concern by the year 2010.

Persons interested in scheduling a presentation (limit 10 minutes) can contact Mike Wilson at Wilson.mike@epa.gov or 202/566-0521.

The proposed rule and background information are available on EPA's Web site at: https://www.epa.gov/lead