Grand Canyon Times

This week marks the observance of National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week (NLPPW) and National Chemistry Week (NCW), with the Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS) highlighting its ongoing efforts to reduce lead exposure in schools and childcare facilities. The collaboration between the Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program (CLPPP) and the Public Health Chemistry Department at State Laboratory Services is central to these efforts.

The focus on testing water in schools arises from the fact that children spend considerable time in these environments, where lead can contaminate drinking water through fixtures and piping, especially in older buildings. Testing each outlet's water is crucial to determine if there is excessive lead presence.

In 2021, ADHS initiated a voluntary program funded by the Water Infrastructure Improvements for the Nation (WIIN) Act. This program offers free water lead testing, training, technical support, and remediation resources to eligible schools and childcare facilities across Arizona.

The Chemistry Department applies its analytical chemistry expertise to ensure accurate testing for lead contamination. This aids schools and childcare facilities in identifying and addressing potential hazards effectively. "This partnership highlights how chemistry safeguards our health," stated an ADHS representative, emphasizing alignment with NLPPW's goals of preventing lead exposure.

To date, over 3,000 drinking water samples have been collected from 221 charter schools, 47 public schools, and 109 childcare facilities by CLPPP. The program also promotes awareness about other sources of lead exposure beyond water.

In Arizona, common sources include lead-based paint in pre-1978 homes and certain household products like antique or imported toys, furniture, spices, candies, home remedies, and lead-glazed pottery used for cooking.

Families are advised to take several measures to minimize potential exposure:

- Inspect homes for items containing lead.

- Frequently wash children's hands.

- If working with lead-related materials at work or as a hobby, change clothes before entering home premises.

- Clean floors with mops instead of sweeping or dry dusting.

- Engage EPA-certified firms for renovations in older homes.

"Let’s work together to keep our children safe and healthy!" urges ADHS. Schools are encouraged to participate in free water testing programs while families can adopt practical tips to reduce risks at home.