Inspector's Notebook

Roof leaking? There may be trouble brewing under the snow on your roof

2011-01-26T12:17:00.001-05:00

Warm attics, cold outside temps

and too much snow are the perfect recipe

for “ice dams,” water leaks,

and then mold problems

If your roof is leaking, chances are “ice dams” have been forming under your snow-packed roof, sending water through the cracks, into your home. Assuming you can spot the leak, simply catching the dripping water with pails, or mopping it up, is just the start of your troubles. It’s the mold that comes after the leak that’s going to cause the most damage to your home, and possibly your health.

Explains Robert Weitz, a certified microbial investigator: “An ice dam is a ridge of ice on the edge of a sloping roof that prevents melting snow from draining off the roof. With the buildup, the water formed by the melting snow has no place to go, except into your home.” It is this water that causes damage to your home’s structure – walls, ceilings, insulation – in addition to your carpets, furniture and drapes. Once that happens, it doesn’t take long for mold to take hold – less than 24 hours for a new colony to be established.

Weitz, also a principal at RTK Environmental Group of Stamford and Newington, CT, New York City, and Boston, MA, says that there are more than 100,000 different types of molds. When inhaled, mold spores can cause chronic allergies, headaches, fatigue, skin rashes, throat and eye irritations, wheezing, and many respiratory problems including asthma.

Immediate action is required, both indoors and out. Weitz suggests:

Indoors:

Take a picture of the damage, and remove the water immediately. Don't wait for your insurance company to call you back. Waiting — even for a few hours — could accentuate your water and mold damage.
Some items, once wet, should be thrown away immediately. This includes food, cosmetics, medical supplies, stuffed animals, and baby toys.
If a material cannot be dried within 24 hours, it should be tossed. Unfortunately, this list includes mattresses, pillows, carpets, upholstered furniture, and items containing paper, including wallboard.
Snow melts on the warmer parts of the roof, but as it travels down the roof toward the eaves, it begins freezing instead of draining, which causes ice dams to form. To avoid this, keep attic air temperature below freezing when the outside temperatures are in the 20s. To do this, seal any air leaks in the ceiling below your attic floor, making it as airtight as possible to keep warm, moist air flowing from the house into the attic. Once sealing is complete, you can also increase the insulation on the attic floor.

Outdoors:

Unfortunately, it’s easy to cause damage to your roof shingles, so it’s wise not to routinely remove snow from the roof. And never chip away the ice from an ice dam.
Have a contractor remove snow from the roof. But be warned that some tools, such as roof rakes, can cause damage to the roofing materials. If you do it yourself, choose a rake with wheels.
If water is leaking into your home, hire a contractor to make channels through the ice dam.
Be sure gutters are clean and free of leaves. Clean gutters will not prevent ice dams, but they offer a place for the water to go.

If you have water damage this winter, a company which tests for mold, such as RTK Environmental Group, can conduct air monitoring and surface sampling tests; identify affected areas and measure the amount of mold; and determine if the health of your family is at risk. For more information, or to contact RTK, visit www.RTKEnvironmental.com, or call 1-800-392-6468.

About RTK Environmental Group
RTK Environmental Group, with offices in Stamford, CT; Newington, CT; New York City; and Boston, MA, is one of the most trusted environmental testing service firms in the New York metropolitan area. It has provided testing services to more than 12,000 commercial and residential customers, ranging from homeowners and real estate investors to medical centers and housing authorities and many others. Company professionals are certified, licensed, and fully insured, and on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The public is invited to visit its Web site, www.rtkenvironmental.com.

National Lead Poisoning Week Underscores the Importance of Testing for Lead Paint Before You Renovate Is Lead Lurking in Your Home?

2010-10-20T11:01:00.005-04:00

October 24 to October 30, 2010 is National Lead Poisoning Week, and important opportunity to spread the word about the dangers of lead paint that lurks in so many homes. Unfortunately, the many cases, you have no idea it's there -- but as soon as you disturb paint, it contaminates your home.

Anyone renovating a pre-1978 built home -- from a simple repainting job to window replacements and major additions or demolitions -- must first test for lead paint. If it is determined the home has lead paint, they should make sure all contractors performing renovations that disturb this paint have received EPA-certification in the Renovation, Repair, and Painting rules and lead-safe work practices that recently went into effect. The homeowners' health -- and the health of their children and pets (and tenants) -- is at stake.

If homeowners plan on doing the work themselves, they should study the Renovation, Repair and Painting guidelines for safe work practices to keep your family safe from the harmful effects of lead dust poisoning.

RTK Environmental Group (in New York, Stamford, Hartford, and Boston) is one of a handful of firms accredited to teach the EPA's certification classes. They also test for lead.

Why the rule?

· Breathing in lead dust — not eating lead paint chips — is the most common cause of lead poisoning.
· Lead poisoning annually affects more than 300,000 U.S. children younger than six.
· Lead is so toxic is can damage a child’s kidneys and central nervous system.
· Ingesting even small doses of lead can reduce a child’s IQ and physical growth, impair hearing, and cause behavioral problems. (Check out: http://rtkenvironmental.blogspot.com/2010/06/inside-us-epa-rrp-training-class-part.html)
· Low levels of lead can pose problems for adults, including high blood pressure and hypertension. Pregnant women exposed to lead can transfer lead to their fetuses.
To learn more about potential lead hazards in your home, or to schedule a lead inspection, homeowners can call RTK Environmental at 1-800-392-6468; for information on RRP scheduled classes, either call or email Gene Burch at gburch@rtkenvironmental.com

'Nicole' to Dump Six Inches of Rain on Northeast

2010-09-30T11:36:00.003-04:00

We're in the thick of it! Unrelenting rain from Tropical Rain Storm Nicole is pounding the entire east coast. And with winds gusting up to 60 m.p.h., Nicole could be the "perfect storm" for mold.

Mold only needs moisture and a food source to grow. Certainly, flooded basements or leaky roofs can provide the moisture; sheetrock, carpeting, and furniture act as tasty treats for those annoying spores. Making matters worse, when the power goes out (thanks to high winds), sump pumps stop working and basements take on even more water.

Unfortunately, the real problems are just beginning shortly after a storm. Withi

n 24 to 48 hours, mold (sometimes toxic) becomes a growing problem, secretly spreading up walls and across floors. By the time you realize you have mold, it’s too late. When it comes to mold, what you can’t see can hurt you.

So, what can homeowners do NOW to prevent toxic mold from spreading throughout their homes?

We at RTK take mold seriously, and are considered one of the leading mold inspection services in the region. Here are some quick fixes:

1. If possible, open windows to allow air to flow through your house.

2. Some items, once wet, need to be thrown out immediately, including food, cosmetic medical supplies, stuffed animals and baby toys.

3. If a material cannot be dried out within 24 hours, it should also be tossed. Unfortunately, this list includes mattresses, pillows, carpets, upholstered furniture and items containing paper, including wallboard. Homeowners need to remember that wallboard in a finished basement is a magnet for mold. If there is visible mold, there is no cleaning solution that will kill it. The wallboard must be replaced.

Our mold remediation report is like a construction blueprint, telling the contractor what needs to be done and where. The testing we provide is critical: Once mold forms, the spores can migrate to other parts in your house. Mold might start in the basement, but before long, it’s traveled to the first and second floors.

Since we do not handle remediation, our reports are unbiased. In fact, we get great pleasure when our inspections discover no toxicity. Unfortunately, after a storm like we just experienced, every home is a candidate for a mold attack.

Need a mold inspection? Click here --- to set one up.

EPA RRP Deadline is Today!

2010-09-30T10:35:00.008-04:00

Attention renovators: Today's the day that you are required by the U.S. EPA to have enrolled yourself in an upcoming RRP training class. If you plan on performing any work on a home, childcare facility, or school built prior to 1978, it's best to be compliant with the new EPA rules.

Fines are quite steep: $32,500 per violation with possible jail time.

If you need the proper training, RTK has been accredited by the EPA to properly teach the RRP class.

Click here for further information about class schedules and registration.

Good luck!

Time's Running Out! 9/30/10 EPA RRP Deadline Approaches

2010-09-29T09:51:00.006-04:00

Attention renovators: Thursday, September 30, 2010 is the EPA's deadline for you to be enrolled in an RRP training class, to properly train in how to work with lead paint. Due to high demand for classes earlier this year, the EPA (through pressures from Congress), extended its April deadline to September 30th to allow renovators like contractors, window installers, plumbers, property managers, or anyone else who could be performing renovations on homes, schools, or child-care facilities built before 1978, to enroll in a training class.

Although it would be virtually impossible for the millions of renovators to be trained by the handful of accredited instructors by tomorrow's deadline, all renovators must have proof of enrollment in an upcoming class by tomorrow's deadline if they want to work on pre-1978 homes, schools, or childcare facilities.

Click here for upcoming class and enrollment information.

The EPA is beginning its enforcement of the RRP rule for lead paint and fines are steep; fines begin at $32,500 per violation with the possibility of prison time.

IMPORTANT: Four Steps To Take After Floods To Limit Indoor Mold Growth

2010-08-23T09:58:00.006-04:00

Heavy rainfall in the northeast on Sunday has caused widespread flooding in basements and even structural damage for some. Heavy rain fell at a rate of more than two-inches per hour on Sunday in the New York Tri-State Area leaving motorists stranded and homeowners cleaning up.

Businesspeople returned to work Monday morning to find water and mud in their basements and shops.

Nassau and Rockland Counties were especially hard hit. In the town of Herricks, more than 100 were evacuated as flood waters seeped into basements and collapsed foundation walls. In Nyack, floods pushed muddy water into basements of buildings along a three-block stretch. In Nanuet, the pool is closed after the storm pushed muddy water into it.

In Westchester and Fairfield Counties, wires down meant no electricity to run sump pumps to keep basements dry. Fire departments were busy pumping water from several Tri-State Area basements.

More rain is expected through Wednesday from New Jersey, through Hartford, and Boston, placing additional pressure on an already saturated ground.

What to do if you have flood damage

1. If possible, open windows to allow airflow throughout the house.

2. Some items, once wet should be thrown away immediately. This includes food, cosmetic medical supplies, stuffed animals, and baby toys.

3. If a material cannot be dried out within 24 hours, it should also be tossed. Unfortunately, this list includes mattresses, pillows, carpets, upholstered furniture, and items containing paper, including wallboard. Homeowners need to remember that wallboard in a finished basement is a magnet for mold. If there is visible mold, there is no cleaning solution that will kill it. The wallboard must be replaced.

4. Take a picture of the damage, and remove the water immediately. Don't wait for your insurance company to call you back. Waiting--even for a few hours--could multiply your water and mold damage.

Inside a U.S. EPA RRP Training Class Part 6: Removing a window

2010-07-21T12:07:00.006-04:00

Setting up a containment for lead dust under the EPA's new RRP rule, can be a complex and time-consuming task. But, containment is key to providing a safe work environment for your employees and a safe living environment for the homeowner. The above video gives a brief overview of what renovators should do when preparing to remove a home's window.

If you're a contractor, painter, handyman, or general renovator, do not delay getting into an RRP training class. Our classes meet in Stamford (near the Metro-North train line) or in Hartford (an easy drive from Connecticut, Massachusetts, Vermont, and New Hampshire. Click here for a complete listing of upcoming classes.

It's now the law: Anyone performing work on a home, school, or childcare facility built prior to 1978, must be properly trained or supervised by someone with proper training in the RRP rule and lead-safe work practices.

More classes announced soon. For additional information, contact Gene Burch: 1-800-392-6468 or gburch@rtkenvironmental.com

Failure to accurately state EPA accreditation conditions could result in the EPA suspending or withdrawing accreditation; Course: Renovator-Initial course (English) and Dust Sampling Technician-Initial course (English).

Video: Inside a U.S. EPA RRP Training Class: Part 5 'What I learned today'

2010-06-22T16:39:00.014-04:00

Renewal by Anderson representative, Jim Griswald, takes pride in the integrity of the work that his company performs. That's why Anderson ensures that their staff is thoroughly trained in the new RRP rule for painters, contractors, renovators, handymen, plumbers--essentially anyone who will be disturbing painted surfaces in homes, schools, and childcare facilities built prior to 1978. Jim enthusiastically participated in an RTK Environmental Group EPA-accredited RRP training class (held in either the New York tri-state area or in Greater New England.

Although motivated to do the work properly by the EPA's $32,500 fine for RRP violators (and possible jail time), Mr. Griswald is mostly motivated by integrity--making sure that the quality of his company's work is second to none.

If you're a contractor, painter, handyman, or general renovator, do not delay getting into an RRP training class. Our classes meet in Stamford (near the Metro-North train line) or in Hartford (an easy drive from Connecticut, Massachusetts, Vermont, and New Hampshire. Click here for a complete listing of upcoming classes.

It's now the law: Anyone performing work on a home, school, or childcare facility built prior to 1978, must be properly trained or supervised by someone with proper training in the RRP rule and lead-safe work practices.

More classes announced soon. For additional information, contact Gene Burch: 1-800-392-6468 or gburch@rtkenvironmental.com

Failure to accurately state EPA accreditation conditions could result in the EPA suspending or withdrawing accreditation; Course: Renovator-Initial course (English) and Dust Sampling Technician-Initial course (English).

Inside a U.S. EPA RRP Training Class // Part IV // Lead Poisoning

2010-06-17T16:36:00.005-04:00

The new U.S. EPA RRP (Renovation, Repair, and Painting) Rule is now in effect. Contractors, painters, and handymen across the United States are scrambling to find the proper EPA-accredited training to meet the new stringent standards.
The RRP rule affects anyone who works on a home or child-care facility (schools, daycares), etc... built prior to 1978. The reason for the long-overdue RRP rule is simple: most of these homes were coated with toxic lead paint (the industry standard at that time), which is a clear health hazard, especially to children.

RTK Environmental Group's Senior Project Manager, Gene Burch, has been heading up our educational efforts and teaches the U.S. EPA's RRP training class 2-3 times per week. The class is an all-day lesson that combines classroom instruction with "hands-on" practical exercises. Click here for a list of upcoming classes.

LIstening to John in the video really hits home the fact that it's easy to be poisoned by lead (especially lead dust), and just how horrible lead poisoning can really be. (John accidentally nearly poisoned his young daughter while renovating his own home. He's now taking the RRP class to be sure that his family and the families of whom he works for are all safe.

If you haven't signed up for one of our U.S. EPA-accredited RRP training classes, do so today! And remember, fines begin at $32,500 per violation, so don't put off training for a later time.

Failure to accurately state EPA accreditation conditions could result in the EPA suspending or withdrawing accreditation; Course: Renovator-Initial course (English) and Dust Sampling Technician-Initial course (English).

RRP Grace Period? Congress Says 'Yes' to Delaying EPA's New Lead Paint Enforcement; Maybe.

2010-06-03T05:42:00.012-04:00

Congress says 'yes' to an RRP grace period. Will the amendment survive a Presidential veto?

Our friends at the IAQA have sent this important legislative update for all contractors, painters, repairmen, handymen--all renovators:

The U.S. Senate voted May 27 to delay the implementation of an Environmental Protection Agency regulation on lead paint, in order to provide small contractors with more time to receive mandated training.

The vote was for an amendment to a supplemental spending bill, which now must be reconciled with a similar bill passed by the House of Representatives.

If the amendment survives the reconciliation process, the bill would then go to the White House. It could be vetoed by President Obama, but it is unclear whether he would want to block a major spending bill - which includes funding for troops in Afghanistan and disaster relief - over this issue.All renovators' eyes on the White House. Will President Obama veto the new RRP grace period? It has to make it out of the House first.

A spokeswoman at the White House said it had no comment yet on the matter.

The rule requires that contractors who perform work in homes built before 1978 be EPA-certified in lead paint removal or face fines up to $32,500 per violation per day.

The amendment introduced by Sen. Collins would bar the EPA from levying fines against contractors who have signed up for training classes by September 30, 2010. This delay would allow adequate time for contractors to comply with the new regulation.

"Unfortunately, as a result of EPA's lack of planning, there still are not enough certified trainers in most states to educate contractors about these new requirements," Sen. Susan Collins (R-Maine), the primary foe of the regulation, said during a Senate debate.

Three states - Louisiana , Wyoming and South Dakota - do not have a single EPA-certified trainer, Collins asserted. "In Maine , there are just three EPA-certified trainers. Hundreds of Maine contractors have signed up for training, but are being forced to wait," she added.

Sen. Barbara Boxer (D-Calif.) argued strongly against the amendment, saying that there are traveling trainers who are able to go to more rural states. "Lead is poison," she told her colleagues. "Please don't leave America 's children at risk."

For the latest RRP information, subscribe to this blog or follow us on Facebook or Twitter.

Updated RRP Renovator Class Schedule

2010-05-20T14:26:00.003-04:00

RRP Class Schedule:

With the RRP rule in effect, many contractors, painters, and property owners have been scrambling to secure a spot in our U.S. EPA-accredited RRP training classes. We've been adding classes left and right to meet demand--hopefully, one of these dates will fit into your busy schedule. If not, please contact us to set up private classes for your group.

RRP training class schedule:

Boston / Hartford / New England, classes meet in Newington(Hartford), CT:

October 4th

October 11th

October 15th

October 21st

New York tri-state area, classes meet in Stamford, CT, just blocks from the StamfordTransportation Center (Amtrak & Metro-North Commuter Railroad):

October 6th

All classes meet from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and are taught in English. Lunch is provided. Due to the scope of curriculum, seating is extremely limited in each class. Reserve your spot today!

More classes announced soon. For additional information, contact Gene Burch: 1-800-392-6468 orgburch@rtkenvironmental.com

Failure to accurately state EPA accreditation conditions could result in the EPA suspending or withdrawing accreditation; Course: Renovator-Initial course (English) and Dust Sampling Technician-Initial course (English).

RRP Renovator Training Class Info from EPA

2010-05-06T17:34:00.004-04:00

On April 22, 2010, the U.S. EPA began enforcement of its new RRP rule for renovators, repairmen, and painters. The RRP rule applies to work being done on both the interior and exterior of any home, school, or child-care facility built prior to 1978 (when lead-based paint was outlawed). There are millions of professionals who have yet to be properly trained in the rules of RRP--and with just 200 accredited training providers, there are many waiting lists nationwide. Sign up for one of RTK's RRP training classes by clicking here.

RRP "Renovate Right" EPA Pamphlet Order From

2010-05-06T17:30:00.003-04:00

You can now order your EPA "Renovate Right" pamphlets from RTK Environmental Group. Simply print this form and fax to the number below:

RRP PAINTERS, RENOVATORS, PROPERTY MANAGERS, CONTRACTORS RRP

RTK Environmental can be your source for the EPA RRP education brochure pamphlet, “RENOVATE RIGHT”. As you know, this booklet must be given to all clients with pre 1978 housing to comply with the new rule (as of April 22, 2010)

Circle One:

50 PAMPHLETS $35.00 100 PAMPHLETS $55.00 Shipped Fed-Ex

Make check payable to: RTK Environmental

And mail to: 29 Bank St., Stamford, CT 06901

Fax order form to: 203-921-4145 Or Fax 860-232-5703

OR EMAIL COMPLETED FORM TO: GBURCH@RTKENVIRONMENTAL.COM

Please TYPE or PRINT your delivery information:

Name/Attn

Company

Address

City State Zip

Phone Check# Amount

MC/VISA# Exp Date

*Credit Card Billing Zip Code Thank You!

'Renovate Right' Pamphlets Available

2010-04-26T21:46:00.006-04:00

Painters, renovators, property managers, and contractors, here's some important information for you: The EPA now requires you to distribute "Renovate Right," the EPA RRP education pamphlet to all clients with homes built prior to 1978. (Applies to schools and child-care facilities.)

You can now order your U.S. EPA "Renovate Right" pamphlet from RTK Environmental Group. Call us for an order form: 1-800-392-6468 or e-mail Gene Burch gburch@rtkenvironmental.com our U.S. EPA accredited RRP instructor.

If you haven't taken one of our EPA-accredited RRP training classes, sign up here.

For additional information, contact Gene Burch: 1-800-392-6468 or e-mail gburch@rtkenvironmental.com

EPA'S RRP Rule Takes Effect TODAY!

2010-04-22T10:43:00.000-04:00

48 HOURS until U.S. EPA RRP Rule Takes Effect // RRP Training EPA Approved // RRP Training Providers \\

2010-04-20T09:56:00.006-04:00

This is it! This Thursday, April 22, 2010, the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) begins enforcing its new RRP rule.
RRP, or Renovation, Repair, and Painting Rule, strictly enforces lead safe work practices for contractors, handymen, painters, or performing work on homes, schools, and childcare facilities built prior to 1978.

Fines are steep. The EPA plans on fining $32,000 for each violation! It's best to get trained immediately.

RTK Environmental Group is one of a handful of accredited training providers for the RRP rule in the Northeastern United States. Sign up for the eight-hour RRP Renovator Initial Training Course by contacting Gene Burch. Additionally, click here for an updated class schedule. You can also view our video series on YouTube: Inside an RRP Training Class.

For additional information, contact Gene Burch: 1-800-392-6468 or gburch@rtkenvironmental.com

U.S. EPA RRP Rule Takes Effect April 22, 2010 // RRP Training EPA Approved // RRP Training Providers \\

2010-04-07T11:47:00.010-04:00

CONTAINMENT SUITS ON! It's hard to believe that the new U.S. EPA RRP Rule (Renovation, Repair & Painting Rule) takes effect in just two weeks. On April 22, 2010--coincidentally, Earth Day--contractors, painters, handymen, repairmen, and property owners must be properly accredited by the EPA to disturb painted surfaces on homes, schools, or childcare facilities built before 1978 (when lead paint was outlawed). While the accreditation process seems complex, the RRP rule protects people and pets from toxic lead paint dust that is often inhaled by humans, absorbed into groundwater, or licked by pets and infants. The bottom line is that lead paint dust is extremely toxic and easily ingested.

RTK Environmental Group is one of only a handful of companies accredited to teach the EPA's detailed and stringent curriculum to contractors, handymen, painters, installers, and other professionals who routinely disturb lead paint. Instructor Gene Burch has found that most students have had no training for working with lead paint. "The students are in awe once they find out how dangerous lead paint can be to their health and to those who live in the affected home," says Gene.

Harold, John, and Andrew of White Electric in White Plains, NY take a break from an RRP training class to strike a pose in containment gear. We're not sure if all three men then crammed into the Corvette to head home.

With the EPA's RRP deadline rapidly approaching, it would be wise to become accredited. Click here for a class schedule. Fines begin at $32,500 each.

Be sure to follow our video series: "Inside a U.S. EPA RRP Training Class" to see how the accreditation process occurs. And please call us with questions 1-800-392-6468.

Here we go again! Record rainfall causing flooded and moldy basements

2010-03-28T10:59:00.007-04:00

Oh boy, here we go again! Just when you thought all this menacing rain had subsided, another major storm is predicted for the northeast. With an already saturated ground, any major rainfall could cause big problems for homeowners and business alike.
Even though homes like this one in Armonk, NY are properly built to have water flow away from the foundation, a deluge can simply water log a basement.
Here in Foxboro, MA, water covers the roadway and seeps into the foundations of nearby homes and businesses.
So, what to do when you're faced with a water intrusion in a roof, basement, or wall? Read the next article...

Cleaning Up After The Nor'easter: Indoor Mold, The Next Big Problem

2010-03-23T09:52:00.010-04:00

The week following the big Nor’easter was even worse than the storm: flooding, roads and schools closed, and power outages by the thousands.

Unfortunately, the real problems are just beginning for homeowners. Within 24 to 48 hours, mold (sometimes toxic) becomes a growing problem, secretly spreading up walls and across floors. By the time you realize you have mold, it’s too late. When it comes to mold, what you can’t see can hurt you.

So, what can homeowners do NOW to prevent toxic mold from spreading throughout their homes?

We at RTK take mold seriously, and are considered one of the leading mold inspection services in the region. Here are some quick fixes:

1. If possible, open windows to allow air to flow through your house.

2. Some items, once wet, need to be thrown out immediately, including food, cosmetic medical supplies, stuffed animals and baby toys.

Need a mold inspection? Click here --- to set one up.

Inside an RRP training class: Part III // U.S. EPA RRP Classes // Lead Paint

2010-03-06T10:21:00.007-05:00

In a few short weeks, the U.S. EPA RRP rule (Renovation, Repair & Painting) takes effect. Essentially, any contractor, painter, handyman, property owner, or municipality, hired or supervising work on a home, apartment, child-care facility, or school built before 1978, must be properly accredited by the U.S. EPA in lead-safe work practices. Fines are very steep ($32,000 per violation and possible jail time), and the EPA is promising strict enforcement.

We teach the US EPA RRP class here at RTK Environmental--and are proud to be one of only a handful of accredited trainers in the Northeastern United States. Click here for a class schedule.

Be sure to follow our video series: "Inside a U.S. EPA RRP Training Class" to see how the accreditation process occurs. And please call us with questions 1-800-392-6468.

RRP Training EPA Approved // RRP Training Providers \\ Inside an RRP Training Class Part II

2010-02-10T08:54:00.010-05:00

With only weeks until the new U.S. EPA RRP (Renovation, Repair, and Painting) Rule goes into effect, contractors, painters, and handymen across the United States are scrambling to find the proper EPA-accredited training to meet the new stringent standards.
The RRP rule affects anyone who works on a home or child-care facility (schools, daycares), etc... built prior to 1978. The reason for the long-overdue RRP rule is simple: most of these homes were coated with toxic lead paint (the industry standard at that time), which is a clear health hazard, especially to children.

RTK Environmental Group's Senior Project Manager, Gene Burch, has been accredited to teach the U.S. EPA's RRP training class. The class is an all-day lesson that combines classroom instruction with "hands-on" practical exercises. Click here for a list of upcoming classes.

Listening to the two contractors on the video above describe how there really hasn't been a strong push from environmental authorities to educate those who work with lead paint on a regular basis; these men and women are finally learning how to properly work with the toxic substance.

Failure to accurately state EPA accreditation conditions could result in the EPA suspending or withdrawing accreditation; Course: Renovator-Initial course (English) and Dust Sampling Technician-Initial course (English).

Inside an RRP training class

2010-02-09T10:39:00.005-05:00

RTK Environmental Group has always been on the forefront of training professionals how to work with lead paint hazards. Now, our Gene Burch is one of only a handful of accredited RRP (Renovation, Repair, and Painting) training providers in the United States. This video details some of what you'll see and hear inside an RRP training class (U.S. EPA accredited).

If you have any questions or would like information about taking an RRP training class to learn how to properly work with lead paint, please call Gene at 1-800-392-6468. Classes meet in the New York Tri-State Area and in Hartford, CT (serving Massachusetts).

The April, 2010 deadline is looming and the penalties are steep. Please contact us at 1-800-392-6468 to reserve your spot in an all-day RRP training class.

Failure to accurately state EPA accreditation conditions could result in the EPA suspending or withdrawing accreditation; Course: Renovator-Initial course (English) and Dust Sampling Technician-Initial course (English).

The RRP Honor Roll Continues to Grow!

2010-02-02T11:43:00.006-05:00

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David Grecco of Norwalk, Connecticut is now only one of a handful of contractors accredited in RRP (Renovation, Repair, and Painting) by the U.S. EPA in the Northeastern United States. Mr. Grecco earned his stripes on January 29, 2010 at RTK Environmental Group's RRP training class taught by RTK's Gene Burch.

The April, 2010 deadline is looming and the penalties are steep. Please contact us at 1-800-392-6468 to reserve your spot in an all-day RRP training class.

U.S. EPA accredited RRP Training \\ RRP Training Class Schedule

2010-01-20T13:31:00.035-05:00

RRP Class Schedule:

RRP training class schedule:

Boston / Hartford / New England, classes meet in Newington(Hartford), CT:

May 24th--A few seats left

May 25th--A few seats left

June 6th

June 7th--A few seats left

June 11th

June 15th

June 16th

June 29th

June 30th

New York tri-state area, classes meet in Stamford, CT, just blocks from the Stamford Transportation Center (Amtrak & Metro-North Commuter Railroad):

May 27th--A few seats left

June 3rd--A few seats left

June 23rd

July 1st

Greater Danbury area: Classes meet in Bethel, CT

June 9th--Sold Out

June 10th--Sold Out

June 17th--Sold Out

June 21st--Sold Out

All classes meet from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and are taught in English. Lunch is provided. Due to the scope of curriculum, seating is extremely limited in each class. Reserve your spot today!

More classes announced soon. For additional information, contact Gene Burch: 1-800-392-6468 or gburch@rtkenvironmental.com

RRP Training Classes Being Added

2010-01-13T18:51:00.004-05:00

Due to strong demand, we're adding additional U.S. EPA RRP training classes tomorrow. If you're a contractor, painter, or property owner/manager, you'll need to be aware (and possibly trained) in the ins and outs of RRP. Please check back tomorrow for additional dates.

Thanks!

RRP Training Classes for Property Owners, Contractors, & Painters

2010-01-06T11:37:00.005-05:00

If you’re one of the thousands of painters, contractors, or maintenance staffers who are looking for proper Renovation, Repair, and Painting (RRP) accreditation to meet the U.S. EPA’s stringent new guidelines, we can help. RTK Environmental Group is one of only a handful of accredited RRP instructors in the Northeastern United States. The April, 2010 deadline is rapidly approaching, so reserve your spot quickly.

Remember, the US EPA is taking enforcement seriously. $32,000 per violation and possible jail time. You can’t afford not to take this class.

Seating is limited, so reserve your spot today!

New York tri-state area, classes meet in Stamford, CT, just blocks from the Stamford Transportation Center (Amtrak & Metro-North Commuter Railroad):

-January 14, 2010

-January 15, 2010

-January 28, 2010

-January 29, 2010

Boston/Hartford/New England, classes meet in Newington(Hartford), CT:

-January 18, 2010 (Just a few seats left)

-January 19, 2010

All classes meet from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and are taught in English. Lunch is provided. Due to the scope of curriculum, seating is extremely limited in each class. Reserve your spot today!

More classes announced soon. For additional information, contact Gene Burch: 1-800-392-6468 or gburch@rtkenvironmental.com

Planning a winter getaway? Mind your pipes!

2009-12-28T12:10:00.007-05:00

When traveling this holiday season, the last thing you want to worry about is a frozen pipe bursting in your basement. While it may seem counterintuitive, fact is our mold inspection team keeps quite busy during the winter months, and here’s why: When a basement floods, your nightmare is just beginning. If you don’t remove the water and dry the area immediately, you’ll probably be looking at a major mold manifestation. See, water seeps into sheetrock, carpeting, and cracks in cement; it clings to furniture, destroys cardboard boxes, and damages the inside of your walls; mold spores naturally abound and once water is introduced, game over.

So before you hit the roads, make sure your pipes are properly insulated and your heat is left at a reasonable level—because the last thing you need to stress over is a flooded basement.

Tip: If you have a flood, remove the water first, then call your insurance company and RTK’s mold inspection team! Indoor mold often hides in floorboards and walls; we’ll help you find the hidden mold so your contractor can properly remove all of it. Click here for more information.

2009-12-24T10:49:00.005-05:00

Wishing you and your family a happy and healthy holiday season. Here's to a wonderful year ahead!

Warmly,

Bob & Gene

RRP Classes Announced in Northeastern United States

2009-12-21T14:37:00.011-05:00

If you’re one of the thousands of painters, contractors, or maintenance staffers who are looking for proper Renovation, Repair, and Painting (RRP) accreditation to meet the U.S. EPA’s stringent new guidelines, we can help. RTK Environmental Group is one of only a handful of accredited RRP instructors located in the Northeastern United States. The April, 2010 deadline is rapidly approaching, so reserve your spot quickly.

Remember, the US EPA is taking enforcement seriously. $32,000 per violation and possible jail time. You can’t afford not to take this class.

Seating is limited, so reserve your spot today!

New York tri-state area, classes meet in Stamford, CT, just blocks from the Stamford Transportation Center (Amtrak & Metro-North Commuter Railroad):

-January 14, 2010

-January 15, 2010

-January 28, 2010

-January 29, 2010

Boston/Hartford/New England, classes meet in Newington (Hartford), CT:

-January 4, 2010

-January 5, 2010

-January 18, 2010

-January 19, 2010

All classes meet from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and are taught in English. Lunch is provided. Due to the scope of curriculum, seating is extremely limited in each class. Reserve your spot today!

More classes announced soon. For additional information, contact Gene Burch: 1-800-392-6468 or gburch@rtkenvironmental.com

Planning a renovation? Get to know RRP.

2009-12-21T10:31:00.012-05:00

If you own a home or multi-family unit built prior to 1978, listen up: a new EPA rule protecting consumers from lead paint hazards (Renovation, Repair, and Painting [RRP]) takes effect April, 2010.

The United States EPA says that when disturbing lead-based paint, common renovation practices like sanding, cutting, and demolition, can create hazardous lead dust and chips which can be harmful to children and adults. Beginning in April 2010, 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 must follow specific work practices to prevent lead contamination.

If you don’t think the EPA is serious about RRP enforcement, think again; each violation of the new RRP rule could cost your contractor $32,000 and lead to possible jail time.

Believe it or not, lead is still a serious issue in both the city and the suburbs. Lead is a toxic metal that may cause a range of health effects in both children and adults, from behavioral problems and learning disabilities to seizures and death. Almost one million children between the ages of one and five have dangerous blood-lead levels.

Here in the Northeast, many houses and apartments were built before 1978 (when lead paint was banned). It’s common for these homes to still have lead paint on many surfaces. If this sounds like your home, read more here.

RTK Environmental Group has just been accredited to teach proper RRP techniques for contractors, painters, and maintenance staff. Courses are approved for purposes of accreditation under Section 402 TSCA for the respective discipline. Classes begin in Newington, CT on January 4th, 5th, 18th and 19th, 2010. Classes in Stamford, CT occur on January 12th, 15th, 28th, and 29th. Reserve your spot by e-mailing Gene Burch, gburch@rtkenvironmental.com or call 1-800 392-6468. And be sure to follow this blog for future class dates and RRP information.

Here's the important legalese: Failure to accurately state EPA accreditation conditions could result in the EPA suspending or withdrawing accreditation; Course: Renovator-Initial course (English) and Dust Sampling Technician-Initial course (English).

Your first stop on the Web for all things mold & lead

2009-10-09T14:56:00.007-04:00

Welcome to RTK Environmental Group’s home in the blogosphere! Our mission is not to scare you about the dangers of indoor mold and lead paint, but to provide the information you need, in a way that’s easy to understand. Remember, not all mold is toxic–but that doesn’t mean that it belongs indoors, either. Join us on our journey to provide you with the clearest information on the Web.Of course, if you have any questions, just ask!

Warmly,

-Bob & Gene

RTK Environmental Group’s Founders