Regulations and Continued Risks Emphasize Need to Control Lead Exposure
Federal, state and local regulatory agencies such as OSHA and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) have begun enforcing lead poisoning prevention and worker safety standards for contractors, landlords, and facilities such as daycare centers and schools.
These agencies have issued fines as high as $400,000 to contractors and rental property owners for violations of these standards. “Lead exposure is preventable when you know what to look for and what to do,” said Cynthia Giles, Assistant Administrator for EPA’s Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance. “These settlements serve as an important reminder of the importance of using lead-safe practices to protect the health of our children and prevent lead poisoning.”