BOSTON (April 23, 2024) – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency recently settled with WestFair Painting Corp., a local franchisee of CertaPro Painters in Bethel, Connecticut, for violations of the federal Lead Renovation, Repair, and Painting Rule (RRP Rule). The company agreed to pay a penalty of $13,122 to come into compliance with the RRP Rule.
"Companies certified under the Lead RRP Rule know the dangers of renovating properties with lead paint hazards and hiring contractors without proper lead training and certification is unacceptable," stated EPA New England Regional Administrator David W. Cash. "Thankfully EPA's action will help ensure children, who are the most vulnerable to lead exposure and its health effects, are further protected where they live and play."
EPA's inspection in March 2023 revealed that WestFair Painting Corp. failed to provide the Renovate Right pamphlet and retain RRP Rule records, as required. The company also hired subcontractors who were not certified by EPA or trained in lead-safe work practices under the RRP Rule. These violations were found in at least five renovation jobs, one of which was a property occupied by children.
The Lead Renovation, Repair, and Painting Rule is designed to protect occupants from lead-based paint hazards during renovation, repair, and painting activities. It mandates that contractors, property owners, and managers performing repairs and renovations in target housing follow specific guidelines to ensure the safety of occupants.
For more information on the Lead RRP Rule and reporting violations, individuals can visit the EPA's official website dedicated to lead information.
This settlement serves as a reminder of the importance of adhering to lead safety regulations in construction and renovation projects to safeguard the health of individuals, especially children, from the harmful effects of lead exposure.
