BRATTLEBORO-Representatives from the Windham County Lead Hazard Control and Healthy Homes Capacity Building Program says the organization has provided 388 free lead-based paint safety certifications since launching in 2024.
Participants - including contractors, property owners and property managers - are helping expand lead-safe work across Vermont. Administered through the Windham County Sheriff's Office, the program lays the groundwork for future lead hazard reduction grants in the county.
Training is available to Vermonters and those who work in Vermont through accredited providers. Available certifications include Renovation, Repair, Painting, and Maintenance (RRPM) and Lead Abatement Worker and Supervisor. Through partnerships with Lead-Edu and Evergreen Environmental Health & Safety, eligible participants can have their training cost fully covered at checkout using code LeadSafeVT while grant funds are available.
In a news release, Sheriff Mark Anderson, who directs the program, said addressing lead hazards aligns directly with his office's commitment to community safety.
"Lead exposure is a serious public health issue that directly impacts community safety, making this work a natural fit for the Sheriff's Office. This initiative develops a workforce that creates jobs and keeps Vermont families safe from the harmful effects of lead. We are proud of our first year but recognize there is real need in our communities. This work sets the stage for future lead hazard reduction grants that will create a stronger, healthier Windham County and a stronger Vermont."
The Vermont Department of Health Asbestos and Lead Regulatory Program credited the program with driving interest in lead-safe licensing across the state.
"In the first year of this grant, the program's outreach and free trainings have helped increase interest in several Vermont licenses, including RRPM, lead abatement, and lead consulting," said Amy Danielson, manager of the Health Asbestos and Lead Regulatory Program. "The program has also helped us connect with New Hampshire contractors and explore ways to reduce barriers to working in Vermont. We look forward to continuing this collaboration with Windham County."
For more information about the program and upcoming training opportunities, visit lead.windhamcountyvt.gov/about or contact Elisha Underwood at eunderwood@windhamcountyvt.gov or call 802-212-1548.
This Town and Village item was submitted to The Commons.