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 Reaches Settlement with EPA Over Lead Paint Violations

Gold Shield Construction, a company based in Berlin, Connecticut, has reached an agreement with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) concerning violations of federal lead paint safety regulations. The settlement, announced on July 28, comes as part of a broader action involving three companies in the state.

Under the terms of this agreement, Gold Shield is required to pay a federal fine amounting to $31,916. The penalties stem from the company’s failure to operate in compliance with the federal Restoration, Repair and Painting (RRP) Rule while conducting renovations on multiple properties that likely contained lead-based paint. It was discovered that the company did not maintain proper certification necessary for compliance.

Health Risks of Lead Paint

The EPA has underscored that lead paint poses significant health risks, especially to young children, as homes built before 1978 often have lead-based paint. Exposure to lead can lead to serious health problems, including developmental issues in children. The agency’s regulations aim to protect these vulnerable populations from the potential hazards related to lead-based paint.

During an inspection conducted in June 2023, the EPA identified that Gold Shield had not provided essential compliance documentation. Additionally, the company failed to distribute an essential pamphlet titled “Renovate Right” to the property owners and tenants, which outlines safe practices for renovation and repair of homes with lead paint.

Continued Oversight

Mark Sanborn, the EPA’s New England Regional Administrator, highlighted that such settlements are vital in reducing childhood exposure to lead in buildings being renovated and managed by these companies. The agency is committed to ongoing inspections of renovation companies, landlords, property managers, and real estate firms to ensure adherence to lead exposure prevention rules.

The lead paint safety regulations are part of the EPA’s extensive initiative aimed at reducing lead exposure risks throughout the state of Connecticut. As lead dust can be generated during the disturbance of lead paint, compliance with regulations is crucial to maintaining a safe environment for all residents, particularly children.

Implications of the Settlement

This settlement not only imposes a financial penalty on Gold Shield Construction but also serves as a reminder to other contractors in the industry about the importance of adhering to federal safety regulations. Companies that fail to comply with these regulations face similar consequences, emphasizing a broader industry-wide responsibility to prioritize safety and health standards.

In summary, Gold Shield Construction’s agreement with the EPA reflects serious concerns regarding lead paint safety violations. The financial penalty serves as a reinforcement of the need for compliance with federal guidelines aimed at protecting public health, particularly vulnerable children at risk of exposure to lead. As the EPA continues its efforts to reduce lead exposure in Connecticut, contractors are urged to enhance their practices and ensure they meet the established safety regulations to better protect clients and communities.

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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