Gold Shield Construction Settles with EPA Over Lead Paint Violations

News Summary

Gold Shield Construction has reached a settlement with the EPA concerning lead paint safety violations. The company, based in Berlin, Connecticut, will pay a penalty of $31,916 for failing to comply with federal regulations during renovations of properties suspected to contain lead-based paint. The EPA emphasizes the health risks associated with lead exposure, particularly for children, and reaffirms its commitment to enforcing compliance within the construction and renovation sectors.

Gold Shield Construction Settles Lead Paint Violations with EPA

Gold Shield Construction, a company based in Berlin, Connecticut, has come to an agreement with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regarding violations of federal lead paint safety regulations. The announcement was made on Monday, July 28, as part of a larger settlement that involves three companies operating within the state.

As a result of the agreement, Gold Shield will pay a fine of $31,916, a sum that highlights the seriousness of adhering to federal safety regulations concerning lead-based paint. The EPA designed these regulations specifically to protect the public, with a particular focus on safeguarding children from the dangers associated with lead exposure.

Health Risks of Lead-Based Paint

Lead-based paint remains a critical health concern, especially for young children. Most homes built prior to 1978 are known to contain lead paint, which can become hazardous when disturbed. When renovations occur without the proper precautions, harmful lead dust can be released into the home environment, increasing the risk of exposure.

Mark Sanborn, the EPA’s New England Regional Administrator, noted that agreements like the one reached with Gold Shield are vital in minimizing the risk of childhood lead exposure in properties managed or renovated by the companies involved in these settlements. This concerted effort aims to foster safer living conditions for families, especially young children, who are particularly susceptible to the harmful effects of lead.

Specific Violations Observed

The violations attributed to Gold Shield Construction occurred during renovation activities conducted between 2021 and 2023. An inspection carried out by the EPA in June 2023 uncovered that Gold Shield operated without the necessary certification stipulated by the federal Restoration, Repair and Painting (RRP) Rule. This rule mandates that contractors working on homes likely to contain lead paint must undergo proper training and obtain certification before conducting renovations.

The company failed not only to secure the proper certification but also neglected to maintain essential compliance documentation pertaining to their renovation projects. Additionally, they did not provide an official EPA-approved pamphlet titled “Renovate Right” to property owners and tenants. This pamphlet is crucial for informing individuals about safe practices to minimize lead exposure risks during renovations.

Ongoing EPA Efforts

The EPA is committed to ongoing inspections of renovation companies, landlords, property managers, and real estate firms to ensure compliance with lead exposure prevention regulations. These inspections form a part of a broader initiative by the EPA, aimed at reducing lead exposure risks in Connecticut as well as nationwide.

By taking action against violations and enforcing compliance among renovation companies, the EPA is making significant strides toward the goal of safer living conditions free from the threats associated with lead-based paint.

Conclusion

The settlement reached between the EPA and Gold Shield Construction serves as a reminder of the importance of adhering to federal regulations designed to protect public health. The $31,916 federal fine, alongside ongoing inspections and enforcement actions, underscores the significant risks posed by lead paint and the necessary measures to mitigate these risks. As awareness increases, it remains crucial for all contractors and property managers to be vigilant in following safety guidelines to ensure the health and safety of the communities they serve.

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Additional Resources

• Patch: Berlin Construction Company Fined for Lead Paint Violations
• NH Business Review: Code of Silence on Remediation Costs for Lead Paint
• DW: Germany Aims to Rid Drinking Water of Lead
• Wikipedia: Lead Paint
• Google Search: Lead Paint Health Risks