New Renovation, Repair & Painting Rule Effective April 2010

On April 22, 2010, the EPA will begin enforcement of the new Renovation, Repair, and Painting Rule (RRP). This new rule is the latest regulation addressing the hazards created by disturbing lead-based paint. Virtually any trade or contractor that disturbs painted surfaces in “Target Housing” (pre-1978 and child-occupied structures) will be subject to the new requirements in the RRP.

Some of the notable new requirements include:

All contractors that disturb painted surfaces must become trained and certified as Lead Certified Renovators (This includes an individual certification and company certification).

Currently, contractors must distribute the EPA pamphlet titled “Renovate Right”.

All painted surfaces impacted by contractors in “Target Housing” must either assume to be Lead-based Paint or tested (In CA, sampling can only be done by a DPH certified Inspector Assessor or Sample Technician).

Contractors must use “lead-safe work practices”.

The complete list of requirements can be found here.

Job Site Chemical Hazards

Consideration of the chemical hazards at an abatement / remediation job site is a vital component of job site safety. Unlike physical or biological hazards, chemical hazards may not be visibly apparent. Some examples of chemical hazards include: oxygen deficiency, combustibility, flammability, gas and vapor explosions, corrosivity, reactivity, and compatibility. Each one of these hazards can be influenced by site conditions (temperature, confinement, etc.), work practices, lack of training, improper engineering controls, misuse or ignorance of the chemicals or products used. These factors can work together or independently to produce disastrous results.

Here are some ways to avoid potential “Chemical Hazards” on a job site:

Company Safety Programs, hazardous material awareness training, and onsite “tailgate” safety meetings

Use of detection or exposure monitoring devices (i.e. Oxygen or Carbon Dioxide sensors)

Use of Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) for specific safety information relative to the chemicals or products used on site

Selection and use of appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (i.e. chemical resistant gloves, eye protection and respirator use)

To read more, click here.

Patriot Acquires New Staff for Business Development

We are excited to announce that Steve Parks and Derek Russell have joined our Sales Team. Steve Parks has been working in the environmental laboratory testing industry for over twelve years. As a former Lab Operations and Business Development Manager, Steve will be instrumental in expanding Patriot’s client base, along with contributing to its marketing efforts. Derek Russell brings with him a B.A. Degree in Environmental Analysis and Design from the University of California, Irvine. He possesses a strong technical background to compliment his business development experience; currently registered as a State of California DOSH Certified Site Surveillance Technician. We look forward to seeing great things from Steve and Derek.

To read more, click here.

Mark Your Calendar: Past and Upcoming Events

As we embark on a New Year, Patriot is kicking off 2010 with a bang. On February 16th, we are scheduled to attend an educational luncheon and mini trade show at the Irvine Marriott, hosted by the Orange County Regional Chapter of Community Associations Institute (CAI). We look forward to the topic at hand: Defusing Conflict and Dealing with Difficult People. For more information regarding their organization visit www.caioc.org.

We are excited to be exhibiting at the Combined Claims Conference (CCC) from April 5th-7th at the Long Beach Convention Center, along with attending the Bill King Memorial Golf Tournament at the Skylinks Golf Course. The theme of this year’s conference is “Education – Reaching for the Stars!” Don't forget to stop by Booth #403 and say Hello! We look forward to seeing you there!