Bermuda-based insurer Torus Insurance Holdings Ltd. has designed an insurance product to help companies affected by the new EPA Lead Renovation, Repair and Painting Rule.

The rule, which aims to protect people from lead-based paint hazards, affects thousands of companies in the US. It requires contractors to be trained and certified in lead-safe work practices for renovations and repairs of pre-1978 housing.

Almost a million children already have elevated lead levels in their blood as a result of exposure to lead hazards, which can lead to lower intelligence, learning disabilities, and behavioural issues. Adults exposed to lead hazards can suffer from high blood pressure and headaches.

The rule came into effect on April 22 this year. It eliminates an 'opt-out' provision which previously exempted firms from training and work practice requirements if no children under the age of six or a pregnant woman resided in the home, or if it was not a child-occupied facility.

Adrianne Vigueras, a Vice President of Torus' Environmental practice said, "EPA's Lead Renovation, Repair and Painting Rule is a proactive, preventative measure; the EPA has already certified 204 training providers who have trained an estimated 160,000 people in the construction and remodelling industries in lead-safe work practices. However, the rule does potentially increase contractors' liability exposure now that exemptions have been eliminated.

"EPA regulation highlights the importance for environmental insurance to be part of a company's general liability portfolio. This is a growing need and one which businesses are waking up to."