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EPA, RC2 agree to storage and disposal order for recalled lead-containing toys

Release Date: 05/19/2009
Contact Information: Karen Thompson, 312-353-8547, thompson.karen@epa.gov

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
No. 09-OPA093


(Chicago, Ill. - May 19, 2009) U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Region 5 has issued an agreed compliance order to RC2 Corp. of Oak Brook, Ill., to ensure proper testing, disposal and reporting for recalled lead-containing toys being stored at RC2 facilities in Rochelle, Ill., and Dyersville, Iowa.

More than a million toys have been voluntarily recalled by RC2 due to the possible presence of lead in the paint and are being stored at the RC2 facilities. The EPA order will ensure the recalled toys are appropriately tested and that any solid and hazardous waste related to the toys is disposed of in accordance with the federal Resource Conservation and Recovery Act.

Under that order, RC2 is responsible for making waste determinations but is required to report to EPA on its handling of any hazardous waste from on-site management to final disposal. The order culminates successful negotiations between EPA and RC2 and is part of EPA's national RCRA initiative on recalled lead-containing toys.