The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) reports that it does not matter if a person breathes-in, swallows or absorbs lead particles, the health effects are the same; however, the body absorbs higher levels of lead when it is breathed-in.
The agency lists some of the differences and similarities between the health effects of short-term overexposure and prolonged exposure to lead. Lead poisoning from exposure to very high levels of lead over a short period of time can make a person feel:
- Abdominal pain
- Constipated
- Tired
- Headachy
- Irritable
- Loss of appetite
- Memory loss
- Pain or tingling in the hands and/or feet
- Weak
Exposure to high levels of lead may also cause anemia, and kidney and brain damage reports NIOSH. Very high lead exposure can cause death.
Health effects from prolonged exposure to lead can make a person feel:
- Abdominal pain
- Constipated
- Depressed
- Distracted
- Forgetful
- Irritable
- Nauseous/Sick
Prolonged exposure to lead may also put one at risk for high blood pressure, heart disease, kidney disease and reduced fertility according to the agency. Lead is also considered to be a likely human carcinogen.
“The dangers of exposure to this toxic metal have been known for years,” said Harry Pena, President of Zimmetry Environmental. “Despite this knowledge, some people are still being exposed to unsafe levels of lead in their homes, schools and in the workplace. In Puerto Rico and the surrounding region, Zimmetry's environmental, building science and industrial hygiene professionals work to protect employees and building occupants from lead, asbestos and other regulated substances. We provide consulting, training, testing and building inspection services to identify and mitigate these risks. These services are also essential for keeping businesses and institutions in compliance with existing environmental, health and safety regulations.”
Zimmetry recently sponsored an educational video about some of the health problems caused by lead exposure listed by NIOSH, it can be seen at: https://youtu.be/Gt9RSmIlh3s
To learn more about Zimmetry Environmental and their indoor air quality, industrial hygiene, environmental, 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.
— WebWireID292084 —
