EPA Lead-Safe Certified Exterior Painting Case Study

Project Overview

• Location: Bozeman, Montana
• Property: Pre-1978 residential rental property
• Duration: 1 day for EPA Lead-Safe prep and cleaning, 2 days for painting
• Crew: 4 painters
• Unique Challenges: Adherence to EPA guidelines for lead-safe practices, minimizing disruption to tenants, and ensuring a safe working environment.

Introduction

When it comes to painting older homes and buildings, adhering to strict EPA guidelines for lead-safe practices is not only a legal requirement but also a crucial step in protecting the health and safety of residents, workers, and the environment. This case study highlights the exceptional work done by CertaPro Painters of Southern Montana in handling an exterior painting project for a pre-1978 rental property in Bozeman, Montana, while meticulously following EPA lead-safe regulations.

The Lead-Safe Painting Process

As a certified firm renovator for lead-safe cleaning, CertaPro of Southern Montana was well-equipped to handle this project with the utmost care and professionalism. The process began with the necessary preparations to ensure compliance with EPA regulations:

1. Appointing an EPA-certified project manager to oversee the entire operation.
2. Posting clear signage to indicate that the area was an active lead project.
3. Notifying the tenants of the potential impact on their access to the property for one day.
4. Sealing off all windows and doors to prevent lead dust from entering the home.
5. Setting up a 10-foot perimeter around the work area with plastic sheeting to collect any debris or paint chips.

To minimize the risk of lead exposure, no power equipment, including power washers, was used during the preparation phase. All loose and peeling paint was carefully collected and prevented from touching the ground.

Safety First: Protecting Workers and the Environment

The health and safety of the painting crew and the surrounding environment were top priorities throughout the project. All painters wore Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), including respirators, to prevent any lead exposure. The EPA-mandated lead-safe cleaning process took an entire day to complete, ensuring that the work area was thoroughly prepared before fresh paint could be applied.

Overcoming Challenges: Minimizing Disruption to Tenants

Painting a rental property occupied by tenants presents unique challenges, as disruptions to their daily routines must be minimized. CertaPro Painters of Southern Montana worked closely with the property management company and tenants to coordinate the project timeline and ensure smooth execution. Clear communication and careful planning helped mitigate any inconvenience to the residents during the lead-safe cleaning and painting process.

Exceptional Results: A Fresh, Safe Exterior

After two days of diligent work by the experienced painting crew, the exterior of the pre-1978 rental property in Bozeman was transformed with a fresh, vibrant coat of paint. The project not only enhanced the property’s curb appeal but also ensured compliance with EPA lead-safe regulations, prioritizing the health and safety of all involved.

Conclusion

CertaPro Painters of Southern Montana’s commitment to following EPA lead-safe practices and prioritizing the well-being of residents, workers, and the environment sets them apart in the painting industry. This case study showcases their expertise in handling complex projects while adhering to the highest standards of safety and professionalism. Whether it’s a residential or commercial property, CertaPro Painters is dedicated to delivering exceptional results while maintaining a steadfast commitment to responsible and sustainable practices.

After Images

This is what the project looked like after. Click to enlarge.