What does RRP stand for in the context of lead-safe practices?

In the context of lead-safe practices, RRP stands for Renovate, Repair, and Paint. This acronym is integral to the guidelines established by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for lead-safe work practices, especially in homes and child-occupied facilities built before 1978, when lead-based paints were banned for residential use.

The focus on these three specific activities—renovation, repair, and painting—highlights the most common situations in which lead exposure can occur. During renovation, old materials are often disturbed, potentially releasing lead dust or chips into the environment. Repair activities may also involve tearing down or altering structures that contain lead-based paint. Finally, painting (especially when extending over existing surfaces with lead paint) also poses a risk of lead exposure if not done safely.

This understanding of RRP emphasizes the necessity for professionals involved in these processes to be trained in lead-safe practices to minimize the risk of lead exposure to children and other vulnerable populations.