Media’s Focus on Lead in Drinking Water Reminds Residents of Puerto Rico of Potential Hazards

For the past several months, the national media has closely covered the growing tragedy of lead poisoned children and adults in Flint, Michigan.  Corrosive water used to supply drinking water was the culprit as it leached lead from old water service lines and plumbing fixtures.
 
According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), “Although the main sources of exposure to lead are ingesting paint chips and inhaling dust, EPA estimates that 20 percent or more of human exposure to lead may come from lead in drinking water. Infants who consume mostly mixed formula can receive 40 to 60 percent of their exposure to lead from drinking water.” The agency also reports, “Lead is rarely found in source water, but enters tap water through corrosion of plumbing materials. Homes built before 1986 are more likely to have lead pipes, fixtures and solder. The most common problem is with brass or chrome-plated brass faucets and fixtures which can leach significant amounts of lead into the water, especially hot water.”
 
Lead is a toxic heavy metal that was used for many years in products found in and around homes and other buildings. Even at low levels, lead may cause a range of health effects including behavioral problems and learning disabilities, high blood pressure, kidney problems and other issues. Although everyone is at risk of exposure to lead, children six years old and under are most at risk because this is when their brain is developing rapidly.
 
“Even in Puerto Rico, lead was sometimes used in household plumbing materials or in water service lines used to bring water from the main to a home or building,” said Harry Pena, President of Zimmetry Environmental. “A prohibition on lead in plumbing materials has been in effect since 1986, but older buildings on the islands could be at risk as could newer structures built in areas with old service lines made of lead.”
 
For those concerned about the potential presence of lead in drinking water or from exposure to lead-based paints, Zimmetry Environmental offers lead testing services in residential, commercial and institutional properties throughout Puerto Rico. They have also sponsored an educational video about lead hazards in drinking water that can be seen at: http://youtu.be/2kvtAcpw1MY 
 
To learn more about Zimmetry Environmental and their lead, indoor air quality, environmental, or compliance testing and consulting services, please visit www.zimmetry.com, call (787) 995.0005 or email info@zimmetry.com .
 
About Zimmetry Environmental
Since 2002, Zimmetry Environmental has been providing environmental consulting services to building owners and managers, architects, engineers, EHS professionals, and Fortune 500 companies.  The company is based in Puerto Rico and provides services across the Caribbean and Central America.  The professionals at Zimmetry offer environmental compliance, indoor air quality, asbestos, lead-based paint, Phase I ESAs, and general environmental consulting services.
 

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