The last year and half have been odd and confusing for many. Even with asbestos, mold and lead training there has been confusion. Many people were unable to take their planned 2020 refresher courses. Which means they now have questions their certification and how to stay in compliance. Here at META we want to be as transparent and forward with everyone as we can.
COVID 19 caused many state closures during 2020 and there has been confusion about the grace period for AHERA certification. META is a multi-state approved provider, a charter member of AHERA, and an EPA approved provider. Federal rules beat state rules, therefore META must abide by the Federal rules.
The foundation of all state asbestos programs is the MAP, Model Accreditation Plan. The states can build upon the federal rules, but not diminish them. The Federal rules for MAP, 40 CFR763 Subpart E, part D, Continuing Education, state “After completing the annual refresher course, persons shall have their accreditation extended for an additional year from the date of the refresher course".
The EPA recommends that states formally establish a 12-month grace period to enable formerly accredited persons with expired certificates to complete refresher training and have their accreditation status reinstated without having to retake the initial training course". In January of 2021, the EPA told META, “These requirements have not been waived or amended during the pandemic".
If you are unsure if you are within the EPA compliance and need to keep your certification, please reach out to us at 785-642-6382 or email us at info@metaworldwide.com so we can make sure you take your refresher courses in time. We offer webinars, in-person classes and even online courses for certain states and courses in order to fit any need.
