It is Not Just Lead-Based Paints, Lead Hazards Exist in Some Old Varnishes in Puerto Rico

While lead-based paints are still widely considered the most likely source of lead exposure for most people, another surface coating risk exists in some older properties in Puerto Rico and across the globe. The culprit, aging varnishes that contain lead.
 
According to the Wisconsin Department of Health Services:
Lead in varnish is typically found on floors, stairs, doors, windows and wood trim, and even old baby cribs. Even if a varnish surface is intact, the child can swallow some lead by chewing on the varnished surface.
 
Whether it’s lead-based paints or varnishes that contain the toxic heavy metal, people can be at risk of exposure as these materials deteriorate or are disturbed during renovation and remodeling activities. Even surfaces where there is friction or rubbing can create dusts containing lead. These could include windows and window sills, doors and door frames, stairs, railings, banisters, porches, fences and furniture.
 
“Exposure to lead can cause a number of serious health concerns, especially for children,” said Harry Pena, President of Zimmetry Environmental. “The good news is lead poisoning is entirely preventable. This is why the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends anyone living in a home built before 1978, the year lead was banned from residential paints, have their home tested for it. It is also important that people realize that lead hazards could also be present in old varnishes throughout a property.”
 
In Puerto Rico and the Caribbean, the environmental and building science professionals at Zimmetry offer comprehensive lead testing and consulting services to identify and mitigate these and other potential hazards. These services conform to all of Puerto Rico’s existing lead regulations and help to safeguard families, workers and building occupants, while also supporting companies and institutions in with regulatory compliance issues.
 
To learn more about Zimmetry Environmental and their lead, indoor air quality (IAQ), environmental, occupational and compliance 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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Paul Cochrane

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Cochrane & Associates, LLC

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