Contractors performing renovation work on older housing stock continue to face heightened scrutiny over lead-safe work practices, particularly on multifamily projects involving occupied residences.
ReArch Company Inc., headquartered in South Burlington, Vermont, has reached a settlement agreement with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency concerning alleged violations of the federal Toxic Substances Control Act and the Renovation, Repair and Painting Rule during renovation work at the historic Woolen Mill Apartments in Newport, New Hampshire.
Federal inspectors alleged that ReArch failed to follow several requirements intended to control exposure to lead-based paint and lead dust during renovations of pre-1978 housing.
According to the settlement, inspectors identified deficiencies that included inadequate containment of renovation debris and dust, failure to use protective floor coverings, missing warning signage and insufficient documentation demonstrating compliance with lead-safe work practices.
The project involved renovations at a historic apartment complex, where federal regulations require certified contractors to implement specific measures designed to protect residents and workers from exposure to lead hazards.
As part of the settlement, ReArch paid a $18,715 penalty and agreed to maintain compliance with federal renovation requirements.
The agreement requires the company to use impermeable floor coverings during qualifying renovation work, maintain warning signs around active work areas, properly contain renovation waste and preserve records demonstrating compliance with lead safety requirements for at least three years.
The settlement also requires maintaining documentation related to lead hazards and providing necessary information to property owners and managers to support tenant disclosure obligations.
The enforcement action serves as a reminder for contractors, developers and property owners involved in rehabilitation projects that federal lead regulations remain a significant compliance issue for projects involving housing built before 1978.
Renovation, repair and painting requirements apply broadly to contractors performing work that may disturb lead-based paint. Failure to maintain proper containment procedures, documentation and worker protections can expose contractors to enforcement actions, penalties and project risks, particularly in occupied multifamily housing and historic renovation projects.
Source: EPA.
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