EPA enforces RRP standards

WASHINGTON — The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently began enforcement actions on renovation contractors who allegedly violated EPA’s Lead-based Paint Renovation, Repair and Painting (RRP) standards between February and October 2014, according to a release.

The enforcement actions totaled 62, including 55 settlements and six complaints.

Violators, who failed to follow the RRP standards required on pre-1978 homes and child-care facilities, will be required to certify compliance with the standards and generally pay civil penalties. Civil penalties in the settlements totaled $213,171.

"Children are most vulnerable to the dangers of lead paint exposure, especially those in predominantly minority and low-income communities, where housing is more likely to contain lead-based paint,” said Cynthia Giles, assistant administrator for EPA’s Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance. “These cases to enforce the RRP rule are vitally important to improving compliance among companies that handle lead-based paint. This leads to safer communities, healthier children and a level playing field for companies that follow the law."

The RRP Rule, which is part of the federal Toxic Substances Control Act, is intended to ensure that owners and occupants of pre-1978 “target housing” and “child-occupied facilities” receive information on lead-based paint hazards before renovations begin, that individuals performing such renovations are properly trained and certified, and that renovators and workers follow specific lead-safe work practices during renovations to reduce the potential for exposure to lead.

For the complete release, please click here.