| Send to Printer | << Back to Article |
| Local |
|
IG: Lack of regulation raises threats of lead, asbestos
WASHINGTON -
The D.C. government's regulation of lead and asbestos removal is ineffective, insufficient and may increase health risks for District residents undertaking renovation projects, according to an alert issued by the D.C. Inspector General. Neither the Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs nor the Department of the Environment are doing enough to protect residents and workers from the potential risks of asbestos or lead, the IG reported in a management alert. Gaping holes in existing laws allow basic renovation work to go unregulated, according to the findings. The warnings emerged from an inspection of DCRA, which the IG has yet to finish. But the issues of asbestos and lead were urgent enough to justify the alert. Lead exposure can cause learning disabilities in children, and is also harmful to adults. Asbestos can cause lung disease and cancer. As for lead, only projects undertaken specifically to eliminate or reduce lead hazards are regulated for unsafe work practices and require permits. But renovation work by a homeowner "can pose significant health risks as well," the IG wrote. The IG also warned that DCRA's renovation permit process could allow asbestos fibers to be disturbed if applications aren't reviewed by the Department of the Environment. "DCRA permit application forms do not require applicants to identify renovation work that may involve removing, disturbing, or encapsulating asbestos," the IG found. In his written response, DDOE Director George Hawkins said the District is charting new laws for lead-based paint work, including a program that targets renovations. In her response, DCRA Director Linda Argo said revising the permit process will not be necessary because DDOE already reviews all construction permit applications. |
