The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has resolved for a settlement with IDK Ventures (doing business as CertaPro Painters of Maine) of Westbrook, Maine, for the violations of the Lead Renovation, Repair, and Painting (RRP) Rule during painting jobs performed by its subcontractors at numerous locations in Maine.
The RRP program by EPA requires that projects that require interference with lead-based paint in homes, childcare facilities and preschools constructed before 1978 be performed by lead-safe certified contractors. This program was implemented to protect children from the harmful effects of lead exposure through paint chips and dust during renovation, repair and painting of old buildings which can cause:
• Damage to the brain and to the nervous system
• Reduced growth
• Slow development
• Difficulties with learning, behaviour, hearing and speech
Areas around Maine have significantly suffered from higher rates of lead poisoning in children. The Agency requested CertaPro Painters of Maine provide required documents for the painting jobs carried out in the year 2021-2022. Further investigation was carried out by the Agency alongside the Maine Department of Environmental Protection's Lead Program. Children between the ages of 6 and 17 were confirmed residents of two properties which were a part of this case.
It was concluded that CertaPo violated RRP rule and thus was levied a penalty of 16,636 USD. They have also dutifully confirmed compliance with the RRP rule.
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