EPA Settlement Helps Protect Homeowners from Lead Paint Exposure During Renovations
PHILADELPHIA – March 21, 2014 – (RealEstateRama) — The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency today announced that Thermo-Twin Industries, Inc. has agreed to implement lead-safe precautions when renovating pre-1978 dwellings. The company, located at 1155 Allegheny Ave., Oakmont, Pa., will also pay a $25,690 civil penalty to settle alleged violations.
EPA cited the company for violating the Renovation, Repair, and Painting Rule (RRP Rule), which requires that those receiving compensation for work on pre-1978 dwellings and child-occupied facilities be certified and use lead-safe work practices. These practices are designed to reduce the creation and dispersion of dangerous lead dust during common activities that disturb lead-based paint — such as sanding, cutting, and window replacement.
Lead exposure can cause a range of adverse effects on the central nervous system, such as behavioral disorders, learning disabilities, and seizures. Children under six years of age are at the greatest risk because their nervous systems are still developing.
Thermo-Twin allegedly violated the RRP rule during its renovation of three residential properties in Glenshaw, Latrobe, and Yukon, Pa. According to EPA, company employees failed to take required lead-safe precautions, such as removing objects and covering the work area with plastic or other impermeable sheeting.
The company also allegedly failed to provide the owners and occupants of the properties with an EPA-approved lead hazard information pamphlet, known as the Renovate Right pamphlet, before starting renovations at the properties. The Renovate Right pamphlet helps homeowners and tenants understand the risks of lead-based paint, and how best to minimize these risks to protect themselves and their families.
As part of the settlement, the company did not admit liability for the cited violations.
To find Lead-Safe Certified firms near you, go to www.epa.gov/lead or call the National Lead Information Center at 800-424-LEAD. For more information on EPA’s RRP Rule, visit http://www2.epa.gov/lead/renovation-repair-and-painting-program
For a copy of the Renovate Right pamphlet, go to: http://www2.epa.gov/sites/production/files/documents/renovaterightbrochure.pdf
Contact Information: Donna Heron 215-814-5113 /
