News Summary
Gold Shield Construction has reached a settlement with the EPA concerning lead paint safety violations. The company, based in Berlin, Connecticut, will pay a penalty of $31,916 for failing to comply with federal regulations during renovations of properties suspected to contain lead-based paint. The EPA emphasizes the health risks associated with lead exposure, particularly for children, and reaffirms its commitment to enforcing compliance within the construction and renovation sectors.
Gold Shield Construction in Berlin, CT Settles with EPA Over Lead Paint Violations
Gold Shield Construction, a construction company based in Berlin, Connecticut, has reached a significant agreement with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) concerning violations of federal lead paint safety regulations. This settlement, announced on July 28, is part of a larger resolution involving three companies operating within the state.
Financial Penalty Imposed
As a result of the violations, Gold Shield has agreed to pay a federal fine totaling $31,916. This financial penalty is intended to emphasize the importance of adhering to safety guidelines designed to protect public health, especially for vulnerable populations such as children.
Health Risks of Lead Paint
Lead paint is a well-known hazard, particularly for young children, whose developing bodies are more susceptible to the adverse effects of lead exposure. The EPA states that homes constructed before 1978 are likely to contain lead-based paint. When disturbed during renovations, this can release hazardous lead dust into the environment, creating a serious health risk.
Details of the Violations
Gold Shield Construction was found to have operated without the necessary certification under the Restoration, Repair and Painting (RRP) Rule while carrying out renovations on four properties between 2021 and 2023. An inspection conducted by the EPA in June 2023 uncovered these violations, which included a lack of compliance documentation and failure to provide the required EPA-approved pamphlet titled “Renovate Right” to affected property owners and tenants.
Impact of the Settlement
The settlement reflects the EPA’s ongoing commitment to reduce the risk of childhood lead exposure through strict enforcement of safety regulations in the renovation industry. Mark Sanborn, the EPA’s New England Regional Administrator, highlighted that agreements like this one are crucial in minimizing the risks linked to lead paint in buildings managed or renovated by such companies.
Future Inspections Planned
In light of these violations, the EPA has reiterated its dedication to continuing inspections of renovation companies, landlords, property managers, and real estate firms across Connecticut. These inspections are part of a broader initiative aimed at lowering lead exposure risks in the community. The agency seeks to ensure full compliance with regulations intended to protect public health.
Ongoing Risks and Public Awareness
The dangers associated with lead paint are well-documented, and the risks increase significantly when proper procedures are not followed during renovation work. With most homes built before the late 1970s possibly containing lead paint, the stakes are high for families and workers involved in renovation projects. Ensuring awareness and adherence to safety guidelines is essential for protecting health, particularly for young children who are at greater risk.
Conclusion
The recent agreement between Gold Shield Construction and the EPA serves as a critical reminder of the importance of compliance with lead-safe work practices in the construction industry. As more companies face scrutiny and potential penalties for similar violations, the ultimate goal remains to safeguard the health of the community and reduce the risk of lead exposure throughout Connecticut.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
Additional Resources
- Patch: Berlin Construction Company Fined for Lead Paint Violations
- NH Business Review: Code of Silence on Remediation Costs for Lead Paint
- DW: Germany Aims to Rid Drinking Water of Lead
- Wikipedia: Lead Paint
- Google Search: Lead Paint Health Risks
Author: Construction CA News
CALIFORNIA STAFF WRITER The CALIFORNIA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at constructioncanews.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in California and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Rose Parade, Coachella, Comic-Con, and the California State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the California Building Industry Association and Associated General Contractors of California, plus leading businesses in technology and entertainment that power the local economy such as Apple and Alphabet. As part of the broader network, including constructionnynews.com, constructiontxnews.com, and constructionflnews.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into the dynamic landscape across multiple states.
