National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week: How EEA Training Makes a Difference
National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week (NLPPW) is a vital annual event that raises awareness about the dangers of lead poisoning and the steps we can take to prevent it. Lead exposure, especially in homes and communities, remains a serious public health concern. This year, Environmental Education Associates (EEA) is at the forefront, providing the essential knowledge and training needed to protect families and communities from lead hazards.
Why NLPPW Matters
Each year, National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week shines a spotlight on the real risks associated with lead exposure. Even though lead was banned from household paints in the United States in 1978, millions of homes built before that time still contain lead-based paint, creating a lingering hazard—especially for children. Lead poisoning can cause developmental delays, learning difficulties, and even long-term health issues.
But the good news? It’s preventable.
With the right training and education, homeowners, contractors, and local governments can reduce exposure risks significantly. That’s where EEA’s training programs come into play.
EEA's Role in Lead Poisoning Prevention
At EEA, we’ve made it our mission to equip individuals and professionals with the tools, knowledge, and skills to safely manage lead hazards. Whether you’re a contractor working in homes built before 1978 or a local official overseeing community health initiatives, understanding how to reduce lead exposure is critical.
Here are the main ways EEA is contributing during NLPPW:
1. Lead Renovator Certification Training (RRP)
This course is one of the most critical in reducing lead poisoning risk. The EPA Renovation, Repair, and Painting (RRP) Rule requires that anyone working in homes built before 1978 must have proper lead-safe certification. EEA’s comprehensive RRP training educates contractors and property managers on lead-safe work practices, which can prevent the spread of lead dust during renovations.
The training includes:
- Safe work practices for handling lead-based paint.
- Techniques for minimizing lead dust during construction.
- Proper disposal of lead-contaminated materials.
2. Lead Risk Assessor Training
Lead risk assessors play a crucial role in identifying lead hazards in homes and buildings. Through our Lead Risk Assessor Training, individuals learn how to conduct thorough inspections, perform risk assessments, and recommend actions to reduce or eliminate lead hazards. This type of proactive work is essential in communities with older housing stock.
3. Lead Abatement Worker/Supervisor Courses
Lead abatement is the process of permanently removing or sealing lead hazards. Our Lead Abatement Worker and Supervisor Courses train individuals on how to carry out these critical tasks safely and effectively. This training is particularly important for public housing authorities and large-scale renovation projects in older neighborhoods.
The Impact of EEA’s Training Programs
So, how much of a difference do these training programs actually make? Let’s look at the numbers:
- 70% reduction: Studies show that lead-safe work practices can reduce lead dust exposure by as much as 70%, a huge improvement in protecting children and families.
- Homes and communities protected: Since its inception, EEA has trained over 10,000 professionals, helping to safeguard countless homes and communities across the country from lead exposure.
- Public awareness: Every year, NLPPW reaches over 5 million people nationwide, with EEA playing a significant role in amplifying this message through educational programs and community outreach.
Upcoming Training Opportunities: Don’t Miss Out!
In honor of NLPPW, we’re offering exclusive promotions on our lead training programs! Whether you’re a contractor, landlord, or just a concerned homeowner, there’s never been a better time to get certified and join the fight against lead poisoning.
Check out EEA’s Training Calendar for a full list of upcoming sessions. Whether you're looking for an in-person class or an online option, we've got something for everyone.
FAQs
- What is National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week (NLPPW)?
National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week is an annual event that raises awareness about the dangers of lead poisoning and promotes preventive measures.
- Why is lead poisoning still a concern today?
Despite being banned in paints over 40 years ago, lead remains in many older homes, creating an ongoing risk, especially for children.
- How do I become lead-safe certified?
You can become lead-safe certified by completing an EPA-approved training course like EEA’s Lead Renovator (RRP) course.
- Who needs lead-safe certification?
Anyone performing renovation, repair, or painting work on homes built before 1978 must have EPA lead-safe certification.
- Can I take EEA's training online?
Yes, EEA offers both online and in-person options for lead-safe certification courses.
Browse our list of courses and register for a session today!
