EPA Issues New, More Stringent Standards Defining Lead Hazards
WASHINGTON — The U.S. EPA has issued new, tougher standards used to define dangerous levels of lead in old paint, dust and soil. The standards will affect guidelines followed by state and local government agencies in seeking remedial actions to reduce lead hazards, and also will apply to other federal lead provisions such as the EPA’s real-estate disclosure requirements. Those rules affect sellers and renters of housing.
The agency said the standards also will provide landlords, parents and child-care providers with specific levels on which to make informed decisions regarding lead found in their homes, yards, or play areas.