The LSU AgCenter has scheduled training sessions across the state to certify contractors, painters and others who perform renovation projects that disturb lead-based paint in housing and other child-occupied facilities built before 1978.

Claudette Reichel, LSU AgCenter housing specialist, said as of April 22, 2010, workers will have to be certified to do this type work under the Environmental Protection Agency’s Renovation, Repair and Painting rule.

Reichel said the first of the seven classes will be Feb. 23 in Baton Rouge at the LSU AgCenter's LaHouse, which is at 2800 Gourrier Ave., near the LSU baseball stadium.

The classes will be taught by LSU AgCenter instructors qualified through the National Center for Healthy Housing, a nationwide EPA-accredited training provider.

“The course will consist of the EPA/HUD eight-hour lead-certified renovator training class and the certification test,” Reichel said.

After April 22, all firms must have at least one certified renovator on the job site where lead-based paint is disturbed, she said. To become a certified renovator, the individual must successfully complete a lead renovator training class conducted by an EPA-accredited provider and pass an exam.

“Child-occupied facilities are those where children under age 6 are present on a regular basis,” Reichel said. “Unlike most continuing education seminars, the class is hands-on and activity-intensive.”

Because the class requires every trainee to practice 11 techniques, most classes will have two instructors and be limited to 12-18 people per class, Reichel said.

Each person who completes the class and passes the exam will receive an EPA Lead Certified Renovator certificate.

The cost of the class is $280, which includes the test fee and course materials.

All classes will be from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Other classes to be held at LaHouse will be March 2, April 13 and April 27.

The classes in Lafayette will be March 4 and 24 at the Acadian Home Builders Association, 135 N. Domingue Road.

One class in Bossier City will be March 17 at the LSU AgCenter's Red River Research Station, 262 Research Station Dr.

For more information about the classes and to confirm time and dates, go to www.lsuagcenter.com/lahouse and then to Seminars & Events.