| New EPA Requirements for Contractors begin April 22, 2010 Common renovation activities like sanding, cutting, and demolition can create hazardous lead dust and chips by disturbing lead-based paint, which can be harmful to adults and children. To protect against this risk, on April 22, 2008, EPA issued a rule requiring the use of lead safe practices and other actions aimed at preventing lead poisoning. Beginning in April 2010, federal law will require that contractors performing renovation, repair and painting projects that disturb lead-based paint in homes, child care facilities, and schools built before 1978 must be certified and follow specific work practices to prevent lead contamination. Read about lead-hazard information for renovation, repair and painting activities in the EPA lead hazard information pamphlet Renovate Right: Important Lead Hazard Information for Families, Child Care Providers, and Schools. For more info about this new law and how it could affect your next renovation project, go to epa.gov/lead. If you are unsure about lead in your home, pick up a lead test kit at Frager's Paints. We also carry HEPA respirators, plastic sheeting and supports for encapsulating work areas, and lead safe paint strippers. HAZARDOUS WASTE DISPOSAL The Department of Public Works makes it easy for residents to dispose properly of household hazardous waste (HHW) and unwanted electronic equipment (e-waste). Throwing them into the trash, pouring them down the drain, or getting rid of them in other improper ways can pollute the environment and pose a threat to human health, as well as to the health of your family pets and DPW workers. DPW operates a weekly household hazardous waste (HHW) /e-cycling drop-off and free personal document shredding site at the Fort Totten Trash Transfer Station at 4900 John F. McCormack Road, NE. Starting October 3, Saturday drop-offs and shredding will be held at Ft. Totten Transfer Station ONLY. It is open on Saturdays, except holidays, 8 am to 3 pm. This weekly drop-off site replaces the semi-annual HHW/e-cycling collection events. Residents also can bring documents to be shredded. |