EPA holds free lead-safe certification training in Oakland

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently held free lead-safe certification trainings in Oakland, California, enabling low-income contractors and laborers to safely work on homes with lead paint.
 
“Training and certification help residents and workers remain safe during renovation work that creates hazardous lead dust,” EPA Acting Regional Administrator for the Pacific Southwest Alexis Strauss said. "By emphasizing education and enforcement, EPA is committed to ensuring contractors follow lead-safe practices.”
 
Contractors working on buildings constructed before 1978 are required to have training and certification in lead-safe work practices, ensuring their health and that of those living, working and passing through the area surrounding the site.

Renovation work can generate and disperse lead-contaminated dust and paint chips, potentially leading to serious health issues for those exposed to them. Through these free trainings, the EPA worked to ensure compliance with lead regulations and ensure that low-income workers had access to the training and certification.
 
“I want to thank the EPA for creating this win-win opportunity for Oakland families,” Oakland Mayor Libby Schaaf said. “Contractors who otherwise might not have the chance are gaining a valuable professional certification that increases their marketability. At the same time they are learning how to mitigate the clear health threat lead poses to children, pregnant women, seniors and other adults in households throughout our city.”