An official website of the United States government.

This is not the current EPA website. To navigate to the current EPA website, please go to www.epa.gov. This website is historical material reflecting the EPA website as it existed on January 19, 2021. This website is no longer updated and links to external websites and some internal pages may not work. More information »

Lead

Under the Renovation, Repair, and Painting (RRP) Rule, in exterior containment if a large tree or shrub is within the work area can the plastic be placed around the base and would the plant, however large, also need to be covered?

Answer: The Lead Renovation, Repair, and Painting (RRP) Rule does not specifically address containment of trees or shrubs, but if dust, debris, or residue remains in the tree or shrub at the conclusion of the job, the site will not pass visual inspection. The work practices for exterior projects are based on a performance standard -- the certified renovator or a worker under the direction of the certified renovator must contain the work area so that dust or debris does not leave the work area while the renovation is being performed. In addition, at the end of the job, a certified renovator must perform a visual inspection to determine whether dust, debris or residue is still present on surfaces in and below the work area, including windowsills and the ground. If dust, debris or residue is present, these conditions must be eliminated and another visual inspection must be performed. 

Question Number: 23002-20753

Find a printable PDF copy of all frequent questions pertaining to lead.