On March 31, 2008, EPA issued a new rule aimed at protecting children from lead-based paint hazards. The rule requires contractors and construction professionals that work in pre-1978 housing or child-occupied facilities to be trained and certified in lead-safe work practice standards to reduce potential exposure to dangerous levels of lead for children in places they frequent.  To reduce lead paint dust exposures to children, contractors performing renovation, repair, and painting activities must inform the property owner and residents of the dangers of lead poisoning to children prior to conducting work.
Contractors must also utilize work practices that reduce the uncontrolled generation lead contaminated dust, and must clean and wipe down areas that are exposed to lead contaminated dust as a result of their activities.