EPA, COMPANY REACH AGREEMENT TO FUND LEAD ABATEMENT IN LOW-INCOME HOUSING

FROM:  U.S. EPA
EPA Reaches Agreement with Park Nicollett Health Services; Company Will Fund Lead Abatement in Low-Income Housing

Chicago (July 23, 2012) -- The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has reached an agreement with Park Nicollet Health Services to resolve allegations of Clean Air Act violations at Methodist Hospital in St. Louis Park, Minnesota. EPA alleged the company failed to keep required records and submit required reports on emissions from ethylene oxide sterilizers at the hospital. After being notified of the violations, the company took steps to meet all requirements.

Under a consent agreement and final order, Park Nicollet Health Services will pay an $18,750 fine and spend $56,250 on a project to protect families in St. Louis Park and Minneapolis from hazards associated with lead-based paint. The project will include removing lead-based paint and dust and replacing lead-based painted surfaces or fixtures in low-income housing occupied by children under age 6 or pregnant women.

"As a result of this agreement, the people of Minneapolis will breathe cleaner air and fewer young children will be exposed to dangerous lead at home," said EPA Regional Administrator Susan Hedman.

Lead exposure affects the nervous system and can cause a range of health effects, from behavioral problems and learning disabilities, to seizures and death. Children 6 years old and younger are most at risk.