Dust Allergens and Other Airborne Exposures in Puerto Rico’s Homes, Schools, and Buildings

Aeroallergens, which are airborne substances such as mold or pollen that can trigger an allergic reaction in some people following inhalation or dermal contact, are often found in dust. In some asthmatics, aeroallergens could trigger an asthma attack, or potentially worsen other respiratory diseases.

When dust is airborne, it can remain in the air for long periods of time and settle throughout an indoor space. This dust can contain a number of different substances, including numerous allergens. These frequently include allergens from dust mites, cockroaches, pollen, pets, rodents, mold, latex, and other sources.

Unfortunately, this same dust can in some circumstances contain more than just aeroallergens. In some instances, there could also be lead from deteriorating lead-based paints, asbestos fibers if asbestos was used in the property, and other exposure concerns.

“We have all sneezed, developed a runny nose, or come down with itchy eyes after having contact with dust in a home, school, office, or some other indoor environment,” said Harry Pena, President of Zimmetry Environmental. “In Puerto Rico, the indoor environmental quality and industrial hygiene experts at Zimmetry Environmental offer testing for a wide range of allergens found in dust. We also test for respiratory irritants and asthma triggers. In properties that could contain lead or asbestos, our professionals can test for these and other regulated substances. If problems are found, we can provide solutions and oversight to ensure issues are correctly addressed to optimize indoor conditions for all building occupants.”

Zimmetry also recently sponsored an educational video about dust allergens in the built environment that can be seen at: https://youtu.be/7eaWico46uw

To learn more about Zimmetry Environmental and their indoor environmental quality and industrial hygiene testing, compliance, 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.

Contact Information

Paul Cochrane

President

Cochrane & Associates, LLC

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