Nearly three quarters of homes in the United States contain some amounts of lead paint
CALUMET -- Nearly three quarters of homes in the United States contain some amounts of lead paint. Now the Environmental Protection Agency is strengthening its lead safety requirements.
As of April 22, all contractors working on pre-1978 homes must obtain lead safety certification.
Right now the Calumet-based Northern Consultants is the only accredited trainer in the U.P. where the use of lead paint is especially common. The company is offering full and refresher courses, which will certify participants for five years.
"I think it's a good law, it's certainly necessary, but there's no real way to enforce it," said Houghton area contractor.
Any contractor that hasn't at least attempted to become certified after the new law goes into effect could be fined about $36,000 per day.
TV Station Profiles & Public Inspection Files forWLUC