This week brings a timely reminder of the hazards of lead for painting contractors.

An Illinois painting contractor has entered into a consent decree with the Environmental Protection Agency to settle alleged violations of the Residential Lead-Based Paint Hazard Reduction Act of 1992.

The EPA accused the contractor of failing to provide a lead hazard information pamphlet, failure to retain records demonstrating compliance, and several other issues.

The contractor was hit with a civil penalty of $68,488 for the violations.

“Complainant considered the nature, circumstances, extent and gravity of the violations alleged and, with respect to Respondent, ability to pay, effect on ability to continue to do business, any history of prior such violations, the degree of culpability, and such other factors as justice may require,” the consent order reads.

It’s a reminder to be careful about potential lead issues, especially on properties built before 1978 when the U.S. banned lead paint for residential use and declared it a health hazard.

The World Coatings Council has been a staunch supporter of raising awareness of this issue. WCC is comprised of trade associations from around the globe representing the paint, coatings and printing ink industries

This week (Oct. 19-25) is the 13th annual International Lead Poisoning Prevention Week of Action.

“During the campaign week, the Global Alliance to Eliminate Lead Paint reminds governments, civil society organizations, health partners, industry and others of the unacceptable risks of lead exposure and the need for action,” the organization said.

If you are a smaller business and need help finding a partner for lead remediation, the EPA has resources for you here.