Certified Lead Renovator Training

EPA's Model Curriculum Approach: This approach is described in EPA's model curriculum. One instructor supervises a group who goes through the hands-on exercises. Each group can have as many as six students in it.
EMI Model Approach: The Environmental Management Institute in Indianapolis, IN received approval from EPA to deliver an alternative to EPA's model curriculum approach. One instructor supervises three groups of three students with an option to have one group with four people in it. Each group goes through the hands-on exercises based on EPA's model course. Note: In NCHH's application for E-learning, NCHH limited the size of each small group to three students dropping the option for four students in a small group.

NCHH believes that the EMI Model Approach has the following benefits:

Ensures all students get engaged: With six students in a group, NCHH believes that two to three students take the lead and do most of the work. The three or four other students in the group watch and help out. Yet, these students who are watching are the most important ones to get fully engaged. The smaller group gets all students involved.
Makes better use of instructors: Instructors can train up to 10 students instead of 6 students. This is 67% greater productivity. A good instructor can handle the three groups by holding them up at each step of the process and signing off on the process. It may take a bit more time but the synchronization keeps students engaged and avoids having them rush through the exercise.
Allows students to compare approaches: Students in one small group can see the minor variations on the techniques that the other two groups use. It encourages them to consider how they modify their renovation work to be effective.
Should reduce cost: EMI approach uses twice as many supplies as EPA's model approach because each group of three goes through the exercises. This additional cost is offset by the greater student to instructor ration.

EPA's model allows students to record student completion of the 11 required hands-on skill set using a single form for all students or one form for each student. NCHH requires its instructors to use a single form for each student for the following reasons:

Responsibility: Each student is responsible for getting the instructors sign-off on each skill set and a final sign-off at the end. The other approach puts the responsibility on the instructor.
Education: The form includes a detailed description of the skills that the student has demonstrated. This detail allows the student and the instructor to verify the information. The other approach does not have this reminder or provide the interaction between the instructor and the student.
Accountability: With the single form per student, the training provider has the student's signature that they demonstrated the required skills. If questions arise later, NCHH can produce this signed form as documentation.

NCHH uses the same approach for the Certified Lead Renovator Refresher training. It requires its instructors to use a single form for each student.

NCHH encourages trainers to get a better understanding of the supplies needed to comply with the rule. Take the paint retailers free-online training on the rule, lead-safe work practices and the products that their customers will need. Thanks to the Indiana State Department of Health for funding to make the training possible and the Custom Electronics Design and Installation Association (CEDIA) for hosting the training.

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