EPA Raises Lead Safety Awareness in Los Angeles as Communities Rebuild from Catastrophic Wildfires
Settlements Highlight Essential Lead Safety Requirements as Renovation Efforts Continue
Today, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced settlements with two companies over claims of violations of federal law that protect the public from lead-based paint hazards. The enforcement actions take on added significance as Los Angeles continues rebuilding efforts following January's devastating wildfires, with many older structures requiring renovation work that could disturb lead-based paint.
"EPA is closely monitoring post fire construction in Los Angeles County," said EPA Pacific Southwest Region Administrator Josh F.W. Cook. "Ensuring lead-safe rental disclosure as well as work and training requirements is essential for protecting public health, particularly as renovation and rebuilding ramp up."
The settlements address violations by Security Building Loft Partners (SBLP) and Geronimo Concrete related to lead disclosure requirements and renovation work performed at properties in the Los Angeles area.
SBLP will pay $21,347 for violating the Toxic Substances Control Act's Lead Disclosure Rule, which applies to housing built before lead-based paint was banned for residential use in 1978. The rule requires sellers and landlords of pre-1978 homes to provide buyers and tenants with a federal brochure about lead-based paint, any known information about lead paint in the property, and a warning about potential dangers.
EPA found that SBLP failed to notify renters of known lead-based paint in specific units at the Security Building in 2022 and 2023, violating the requirement that landlords provide this information before contracts are signed.
Geronimo Concrete will pay $16,000 for violating EPA's Renovation, Repair and Painting (RRP) Rule by performing renovation work without proper certification. The RRP Rule requires contractors to obtain certification from EPA prior to performing renovations that disturb lead-based paint in pre-1978 homes, childcare facilities, and preschools. Activities like sanding and demolition can create lead-contaminated dust hazards.
Exposure to lead from paint can harm both adults and children but particularly threaten pregnant women and children under six. High blood lead levels can cause permanent damage to the nervous system and widespread health problems, including behavioral and learning difficulties, slowed growth, hearing problems and diminished IQ.
With Los Angeles facing extensive rebuilding efforts following the January wildfires, these actions serve as an important public safety reminders to ensure lead safety protocols are appropriately followed.
Learn more about the Lead Renovation, Repair and Painting Program, Real Estate Disclosures about Potential Lead Hazards, Pacific Southwest Lead-Based Paint Tips & Complaints, and the Toxic Substances Control Act.
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