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The information presented on this page was originally released on October 22, 2009. It may not be outdated, but please search our site for more current information. If you plan to quote or reference this information in a publication, please check with the Extension specialist or author before proceeding.
Extension offers training to avoid lead poisoning
MISSISSIPPI STATE – Remodelers should follow lead-safe practices that will be taught at sessions around the state in November and December.
Mississippi State University’s Extension Service will offer several Renovation, Repair and Painting Certification Training sessions in full-day courses and half-day refresher courses. The full-day courses are $150, and half-day courses are $85. The sessions are being presented by the Alliance for Healthy Homes and funded in part by a grant from the W.K. Kellogg Foundation.
Bobbie Shaffett, Extension family resource management specialist, said disturbing paint in and around houses can contribute to lead poisoning. Children and pregnant women are especially vulnerable to the damaging effects of lead dust, but construction workers and their families are not immune.
“The Environmental Protection Agency recently issued a rule requiring lead-safe work practices to protect people in common remodeling projects,” Shaffett said. “By next April, contractors must be certified and follow specific safe practices when working on most buildings built before 1978.”
Additional information on safe practices is available from county Extension offices.
Half-day refresher courses will take place Nov. 10 and Dec. 9, and full day courses will be offered Nov. 11 and Dec. 10. For additional information, locations and registration, go online to the Family Resource Management page at http://www.msucares.com/frm, or contact the local Extension office.
Lead-safe Practices:
Until contractors and project workers can be trained in lead-safe practices, there are some basic practices everyone should keep in mind when remodeling.
Mississippi State University Extension Service family resource management specialist Bobbie Shaffett said to use caution whenever the renovation project involves a building built before 1978.
“The Environmental Protection Agency recommends three basic procedures: contain the work area, minimize the dust and clean up thoroughly,” Shaffett said.
For more information about lead safety, go online to http://www.epa.gov/lead/pubs/renovaterightbrochure.pdf.
National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week is Oct. 18-24.
