Veterans ‘Honored’ With Free Lead Safe Work Practices Training

“Program Aids Employment in Construction Field’
Oneida County Executive Anthony J. Picente, Jr. today announced that the tuition for EPA mandated training and certification for two veterans seeking employment in the construction field upon returning from service in Afghanistan or Iraq will be absorbed by the County’s Lead Primary Prevention Program (LPP).  

“This gesture is intended to honor, in some small way, the sacrifice made by our veterans and assist them in securing employment once they’ve returned to civilian life in our community.  While defending our freedom and performing nation-building tasks in the Middle East, changes in federal EPA regulations now require those working in home construction or remodeling be certified in lead-safe work practices.  Through our partnership with Mohawk Valley Community College, the Lead Primary Prevention Program offers this training and is working to increase the pool of Certified Renovators qualified to perform work on our aged infrastructure in compliance with EPA regulations,” Picente said.

Since April, 2010 EPA regulations require contractors and renovators complete an 8-hour training class and be certified in lead safe work practices.  The class, which is offered through MVCC, requires a pre-paid $195 fee which will be absorbed by LPP for two veterans who apply and register for the training.

Dr. Gayle D. Jones, Oneida County Director of Health, says it is essential that anyone who disturbs lead-based paints in pre-1978 housing be properly trained and certified in lead safe work practices and that contractors or renovators found to be non-compliant with EPA regulations are subject to substantial fines.  The Oneida County Lead Primary Prevention Program, in partnership with MVCC offers the required training each month at both the Utica and Rome campuses.  Classes are taught in both English and Spanish.  

“We’re pleased to join with the County Executive in assisting local veterans in their completion of the EPA Certified Renovator training through MVCC,” Jones said.   

Veterans interested in registering for the two tuition supported Renovators Training class positions can call the Oneida County Lead Primary Prevention Program at 266-6147.