EPA sets out to reduce lead exposure in Nashua, N.H.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently launched new efforts to increase compliance with its Renovation, Repair and Painting (RPR) Rule in Nashua, New Hampshire, in a bid to protect area children from lead paint exposure.

The rule, which is part of the Toxic Substances Control Act, requires certification for renovators, both individual and firms, working on housing built before 1978, when lead paint was banned. Nashua is a high-risk area for lead pain exposure, as 69 percent of its housing was built before 1978. Also, there is proportionally enough of the population under 6 years old, and it has a high number of children living in poverty.

To combat the risk of childhood exposure – which can have several adverse health effects, including developmental impairment and learning disabilities – the EPA has sent letters to more than 300 contractors, property managers and landlords in the area. Additionally, the agency will be offering compliance assistance and inspecting the various companies and individuals beholden to the rule, which will be subject to significant penalties.

In addition to protecting children in the Nashua area, this initiative is expected to create a level playing field, discouraging companies from seeking financial relief through non-compliance.