In a significant enforcement move, four Missouri home renovation companies have collectively agreed to pay over $27,000 in penalties to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
The penalties resolve alleged violations of the federal Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA), underscoring the importance of adhering to regulations designed to protect public health from lead exposure.
The companies cited by the EPA for non-compliance include BBW Homes LLC and Kim Roberts Properties LLC, both based in St. Louis, DSH Legacy LLC in Hayti, and Nygard Construction LLC in Bernie.
According to the EPA, these firms performed renovations on homes built before 1978 without obtaining the necessary renovator certification. This certification is a federal requirement aimed at reducing the hazards associated with lead-based paint, which is prevalent in older homes.
Beyond the lack of certification, the EPA highlighted additional violations such as failing to maintain and produce records and not adhering to lead-safe work practices during renovation projects.
These lapses increase the risk of lead contamination, which poses severe health risks, particularly to children and pregnant women.
“Reducing exposure to lead, especially among children and pregnant women and in communities already overburdened with pollution exposure, is a top priority for EPA,” said David Cozad, Director of EPA Region 7’s Enforcement and Compliance Assurance Division.
Cozad emphasized that renovator certification is crucial for ensuring that workers understand how to manage and mitigate the risks of lead-based paint, as well as inform residents about potential lead hazards.
Lead exposure, primarily through lead-contaminated dust generated during renovations, is one of the most common causes of elevated blood lead levels. This is especially dangerous in homes built before 1978, where lead-based paint was commonly used.
Disturbing this paint through renovation activities such as window installations, demolitions, and repainting can release hazardous lead particles into the environment. Children are particularly vulnerable because their developing bodies absorb lead more readily, and their nervous systems are more susceptible to its damaging effects.
The EPA’s Lead Renovation, Repair, and Painting (RRP) Program mandates strict guidelines for companies and individuals performing renovations on pre-1978 housing.
These guidelines include the requirement to train employees in lead-safe practices, obtain EPA certification, and adhere to safety and record-keeping protocols. Contractors must also notify homeowners about the potential risks associated with lead exposure during renovation projects.
Key Points:
- Four Missouri home renovation companies were fined over $27,000 for lead paint violations.
- Violations include failure to obtain renovator certification and improper record-keeping.
- Lead exposure poses significant health risks, especially to children and pregnant women.
- EPA emphasizes the importance of lead-safe practices and renovator certification.
- Renovations on homes built before 1978 must comply with EPA’s Lead Renovation, Repair, and Painting (RRP) Program.