The EPA recently announced it will withdraw answers from official documentation regarding property management companies (PMC) and their compliance responsibilities under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA). The withdrawn answers are statements regarding the Lead Renovation Repair and Painting (RRP) Rule.
This move affirms that any PMC involved with regulated renovations in housing or facilities occupied by children built prior to 1978 need to obtain certification from the EPA for lead-safe practices.
The dangers of lead-based products like pipes and paint have faded in public memory over the years. But lead-based products still pose a threat to anyone involved with or living in a renovated structure that was built before 1978.
Dangers of Lead Poisoning
Lead poisoning is a very serious issue and the main reason lead is no longer used in certain products and strictly regulated in legacy cases. While children are much more at risk for contracting lead poisoning (especially newborns & infants), adults can also be affected.
Lead poisoning is still the #1 environmental illness of children.
Lead Poisoning Symptoms in Newborns
- Developmental delays
- Low birth weight
- Premature Birth
- Birth complications
Lead Poisoning Symptoms in Children
- Developmental delays
- Weight loss
- Vomiting
- Extreme fatigue
- Hearing loss
- Seizures
- Extreme irritability
Lead Poisoning Symptoms in Adults
- Stomach pain & constipation
- Extreme headaches
- Mood disorders
- High blood pressure
- Miscarriages or stillbirths
Acute lead poisoning can lead to shock due to the loss of water in the body. Hemolysis has also been linked to anemia and hemoglobin in the urine in lead poisoning cases. Extreme cases of lead poisoning have been linked to comas.
Lead Abatement Protocols in Illinois
The authority on lead-based paint and abatement in Illinois is the Illinois Lead Program (ILP), which is part of the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) has been authorized by the EPA. The ILP is funded by grants from the CDC and conducts management, consultations, education, data compilation, and licensure of professionals. Lead prevention is delegated by the ILP to local health departments and districts.
Following guidelines and protocols set by the IDPH and ILP are crucial to practicing legally and ethically in the state of Illinois. Details on specific areas of lead abatement, lead poisoning, and lead regulation can be found here.
The ILP website provides data not just on licensure and certification but also contains resources for lead poisoning, prevention, and disposal.
Illinois Environmental Contractors Association Resources
For more information on finding a local contractor to assist with asbestos information, remediation, or removal check the resources below: