Sunday, October 26, 2008

Wipe Out Lead Poisoning - National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week

Release date: 10/20/2008

Contact Information: (news media only) Dale Kemery, 202-564-4355 / kemery.dale@epa.gov (Other inquiries) Priscilla Flattery, 202-564-2718 / flattery.priscilla@epa.gov; En espaƱol: Lina Younes, 202-564-4355

(10/20/08) National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week, October 19-25, is set aside to educate parents and children about the dangers of lead exposure, especially lead-paint hazards in housing. As part of the observance, many states and communities will conduct education and awareness events.

The theme for this year’s lead week, “Let’s Wipe Out Lead Poisoning – Renovate Right!” highlights EPA’s March 2008 rule requiring the use of lead-safe practices during renovation, repair and painting activities. Under the new rule, beginning in April 2010 contractors performing projects that disturb lead-based paint in homes, child care facilities, and schools built before 1978 must be certified and follow specific work practices to prevent lead contamination.

To view a Green Scene podcast on this subject, please visit: http://yosemite.epa.gov/opa/MMWebCon.nsf/HTML/KCHK-7K7PWU?OpenDocument

For additional information on Lead Poisoning Prevention Week and events in your area, please visit: http://www.epa.gov/lead

To learn more about lead renovation go to: http://www.epa.gov/lead/pubs/renovation.htm

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