Lead Testing Services

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) have announced a proposed nationwide settlement with a subsidiary of a major home improvement retailer over alleged violations of the EPA’s Lead Renovation, Repair and Painting (RRP) Rule. The infractions relate to renovation work performed by the company’s contractors at hundreds of residential properties across the country, primarily between 2019 and 2021.

Under the terms of the settlement, the company will pay a $12.5 million penalty and strengthen its compliance protocols for work conducted in homes that may contain lead-based paint. The agreement also requires the implementation of a comprehensive, corporate-wide program designed to ensure that all firms and installers hired to perform renovation activities are properly trained and qualified to follow lead-safe work practices that prevent the spread of lead dust and paint chips. According to the EPA, the company failed to meet the compliance obligations outlined in a 2014 settlement, leading to the latest alleged violations of the RRP Rule.

“This settlement underscores the significant liability and reputational damage that can result from improper handling of lead-based paint hazards,” said Joe Frasca, Senior Vice President of Marketing at EMSL Analytical, Inc. “It also demonstrates that lapses in regulatory compliance can carry substantial financial consequences.”

Identifying lead hazards is easier and more cost-effective than ever. As the nation’s leading environmental lead testing laboratory, EMSL Analytical has delivered trusted analytical services since 1981. The company provides comprehensive testing for lead and other metals in paint, dust, soil, water, air, and a wide range of materials. EMSL encourages contractors, property owners, renovation firms, and retailers, particularly those working on pre-1978 buildings, to seek lead and environmental testing services before starting renovation or maintenance projects. A simple lead dust or paint-chip test could help prevent significant legal and financial liabilities.

For more information about EMSL’s lead and environmental testing resources, please visit www.EMSL.com, call (800)220-3675, or email info@EMSL.com. To access lead and other test kits, visit www.EMSLTestKits.com.

 

About EMSL Analytical, Inc.

EMSL Analytical is one of the leading testing laboratories with locations throughout the United States and Canada. EMSL is a nationally recognized and locally focused provider specializing in fast laboratory results for mold, bacteria, Legionella, USP <797>, pathogens, asbestos, lead, soot, char & ash from fires, VOCs, odors, radon, formaldehyde, indoor air quality, microbiology, environmental, industrial hygiene, radiological, food, beverage & consumer products, and material testing services for the identification of unknown substances. EMSL services both professionals and the general public. EMSL maintains an extensive list of accreditations from leading organizations as well as state and federal regulating bodies including, but not limited to A2LA, AIHA LAP, LLC. (AIHA EMLAP, AIHA IHLAP, AIHA ELLAP), NVLAP, CDC ELITE, CPSC, CA ELAP, NY ELAP, TX DOH, NJDEP and multiple other state accrediting agencies. Please visit our website at www.EMSL.com for a complete listing of accreditations. In addition, EMSL carries a wide range of Sampling Equipment and Investigative Products for environmental professionals.