Schaumburg, IL -- The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced that it will not be promulgating additional Clearance and Clearance Testing Requirements to the Lead: Renovation, Repair, and Painting Program (LRRP).

After consideration of public comments submitted on the proposed LRRP amendment and a review of available science, the EPA has concluded that current LRRP cleaning requirements and mandated lead-safe work regulations are sufficient to protect the public from lead dust hazards.

A signed, pre-publication version of the final rule posted to the EPA website, states, “EPA has decided not to promulgate dust wipe testing and clearance requirements as proposed. However, EPA is promulgating several other revisions to the RRP rule, including a provision allowing a certified renovator to collect a paint chip sample and send it to a recognized laboratory for analysis in lieu of using a lead test kit, minor changes to the training program accreditation application process, standards for e-learning in accredited training programs, minimum enforcement provisions for authorized state and tribal renovation programs, and minor revisions to the training and certification requirements for renovators. EPA is also promulgating clarifications to the requirements for vertical containment on exterior renovation projects, the prohibited or restricted work practice provisions, and the requirements for high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) vacuums. Today's action is EPA's final action on all aspects of the May 6, 2010 proposal.”

The American Architectural Manufacturers Association (AAMA) will review the 113-page notice and report its findings as soon as possible.

“Our members have been instrumental in contacting legislators to detail the detrimental impact of the current LRRP,” said Richard Walker, AAMA’s’ President and CEO. “This collective industry voice has prompted the EPA to make the responsible decision to refrain from adding further, unnecessary costs to homeowners under the current economic climate.”

More information about the EPA lead requirements can be found on the AAMA Web site atwww.aamanet.org.