Resources to Support National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week in Puerto Rico

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that about three million U.S. households with children under six face lead exposure hazards. The danger is serious, but experts emphasize that lead poisoning is entirely preventable.

To raise awareness and reduce risks, National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week (NLPPW) will be observed this year from October 19–25. For 26 years, NLPPW has been recognized nationwide with support from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the EPA.

Exposure to lead can cause serious and lasting medical harm in children, even at very low levels. Once in the body, lead can interfere with the development of the brain and nervous system, leading to problems with learning, memory, behavior, and attention span. It can also slow growth, cause hearing issues, and contribute to speech and language delays. In more severe cases, lead exposure may result in anemia, kidney damage, seizures, or developmental disabilities. Because a child’s body and brain are still developing, the effects of lead poisoning can be permanent, making early prevention and intervention critical.

“According to the CDC, no amount of lead in a child’s blood is considered safe,” said Harry Peña, President of Zimmetry Environmental. “Even minimal exposure can harm learning, attention, and academic performance. While lead-based paint remains the most common exposure source, children may also be exposed through contaminated water, food, soil, and other pathways.”

Zimmetry Environmental supports NLPPW by offering environmental and industrial hygiene testing, consulting, and training services. Their team of professionals serves Puerto Rico and the Caribbean, helping protect children, families, and workers while assisting organizations with regulatory compliance.

For more information about Zimmetry Environmental’s 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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