Springfield company penalized by EPA for lead-based paint violations

A Springfield company is facing a fine from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for alleged violations of the federal Toxic Substances Control Act.

DRS Contracting LLC is among five Midwest home renovation companies that collectively agreed to pay more than $38,000 in penalties to the EPA, according to a federal news release.

EPA officials allege the companies performed renovations on properties built before 1978 without an EPA-certified renovator, which is required by federal law.

“Certification is a key requirement to ensure the use of safe work practices when dealing with lead-based paint,” said David Cozad, director of EPA Region 7’s Enforcement and Compliance Assurance Division, in the release. “Reducing exposure to lead – especially among children and pregnant women and in communities already overburdened with pollution exposure – is a top priority for EPA.”

The individual fines were not disclosed in the release, and an EPA official could not be reached for comment by deadline. An attempt to reach DRS Contracting for a statement also was unsuccessful.

The other companies subject to penalties are:
• Astoria Design Build LLC in Mission, Kansas.
• CAM Home Contracting LLC in St. Louis.
• Davis Contracting LLC in Omaha, Nebraska.
• Dynasty Restoration Inc. in Omaha, Nebraska.