Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Week, October 25-31, 2009

Since 1996 more than 44,000 children in Wisconsin have been identified with lead poisoning. In 2008, the number was more than 1,600 children–an average of 4 children identified with lead poisoning per day.

Lead from old paint poisons children and reduces their future potential. The harm is devastating to our communities and society as a whole; it is entirely preventable.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has published a new Renovation, Repair and Painting (RR&P) Rule that affects child care centers, schools and homes built before 1978. The rule requires that a certified renovator conduct the renovation and that the occupants of the dwelling being renovated receive the EPA Renovate Right pamphlet from the contractor. The rule also requires that parents of children under age 6 who attend a child care center or school must be notified of any renovation activity and that the contractor is properly certified.

Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Week is October 25 – 31, 2009. This year’s theme for Wisconsin is “Be Proactive, not Reactive–Renovate Right!” We want to focus on reaching out to targeted audiences in our communities, such as parents, child care providers, and school personnel to engage them in following this new RR&P Rule to protect children while renovating old housing.

Lead hurts kids and we want to prevent exposure before it happens. That is unacceptable!   On-Line Resources for Information on the Treatment and Prevention of Lead Poisoning  dhs.wisconsin.gov/lead

The DHS Lead-Safe Wisconsin website has information on the status of lead poisoning in Wisconsin, ways to treat and ways to prevent the disease. Data, maps, facts, information pamphlets, and much more can be found at dhs.wisconsin.gov/lead

 Some items of interest:

 Lead poisoning risk factors in Wisconsin: socio-economic status, racial and ethnic disparities, age of child, and age of primary residence of lead-poisoned children.   dhs.wisconsin.gov/lead/lpsurveillancle/index.HTM

Information that can be provided to families include the following: 

ü The brochure titled, “Look Out for Lead.”  

dhs.wisconsin.gov/lead/doc/ParentsLeadEng.pdf

ü A list of consumer products that contain dangerous levels of lead.

 dhs.wi.gov/lead/LSources_Products.HTM

 

Other websites with lead poisoning prevention information:

http://www.cdc.gov/nceh/lead/  www.hud.gov/offices/lead/training/LBPguide.pdf

• The U. S. Environmental Protection Agency, of particular interest they provide information in Spanish.

 http://www.epa.gov/lead/pubs/leadinfoesp.htm

 

Wisconsin is committed to preventing lead poisoning, not only to prevent early brain damage but to protect a child’s ability to learn and succeed in life.

 

 

  

 http://www.hud.gov/offices/lead/

TOP TEN FACTS ABOUT CHILDHOOD LEAD POISONING

IN WISCONSIN

 

1. Lead interferes with the normal development of a young child’s brain resulting in lowered IQ, attention disorders, developmental delays and learning disabilities.
2. Wisconsin consistently ranks in the top ten for the number of children identified with lead poisoning. Since 1996 more than 44,000 Wisconsin children younger than 6 years of age were identified with lead poisoning.
3. Nearly 1 in 20 Wisconsin third graders were known to have been lead poisoned.
4. Children who are lead poisoned show a 15% decrease in reading scores and 14% decrease in mathematical scores on performance tests.
5. Children who are lead poisoned have higher rates of high school dropout, teen pregnancy, juvenile delinquency and violent crime as adults.
6. Children who are lead poisoned are more likely to suffer as adults from kidney disease, diabetes, cognitive deficits such as memory loss and Alzheimer’s and early death from high blood pressure, stroke and heart attack.
7. Children and families have been lead poisoned by unsafe work practices during home renovation. Therefore, in 2009 Wisconsin enacted rules (DHS Chapter 163) in compliance with the Environmental Protection Agency to assure all renovation conducted in homes, child care facilities and schools built before 1978 will be done in a lead-safe manner to protect children from lead poisoning.
8. A child with lead poisoning most often does not look or act sick; the only way to know if a child is lead poisoned is by getting a blood lead test.
9. Lead poisoning is an entirely preventable disease through the removal or control of lead paint dust hazards in a child’s environment.
10. A new study just released estimates that by eliminating lead exposure to young children we could save between $17 to $221 for every dollar spent on lead hazard control. The benefits accrue from reduced health care costs, reduced criminal activity, increased IQ, higher lifetime earnings, increased tax revenue and less spending on special education.

Descriptions of Common Contaminants (by category)

Hundreds of contaminants can occur in drinking water. They can be grouped into four basic categories: microbial, inorganic, organic, and radiological. Although there are over 100 contaminants that can be found in drinking water many of these contaminants are very rare. The following sections briefly discuss 40 of the most common contaminants in drinking water. These contaminants are listed alphabetically within the four categories.

Microbial Contaminants

Microbial contaminants include bacteria, viruses, and protozoans. These are living organisms that are visible in water only with the help of a high-powered microscope. Many different kinds of bacteria, some disease causing, may be present in a water supply. The tests discussed below are specific bacteria tests used to determine whether disease-causing bacteria may be present in the water. Protozoans are less common in water than bacteria, but a few can be problems. Viruses will not be discussed because they are expensive and difficult to test, however, viruses such as hepatitis are carried by water and can cause serious illness.

Coliform Bacteria

Coliform bacteria are a large group of bacteria that occur throughout the environment. They are used as an indicator organism to indicate the potential for disease-causing bacteria to be present in water. In other words, if coliform bacteria are present, it is presumed that a contamination pathway exists between the bacteria source and the water supply and disease-causing bacteria may use this pathway to enter the water supply. Most coliform bacteria do not cause disease, but the greater their number the greater the likelihood that disease-causing bacteria may be present. Since coliform bacteria stay in water longer than most disease-causing organisms, the absence of coliform bacteria leads to the assumption that the water supply is microbiologically safe to drink. Consuming water with coliform bacteria present may cause gastrointestinal illnesses, fever, and other flu-like symptoms. Therefore, the drinking water standard requires that no coliform bacteria be present in public drinking water supplies. Results from coliform bacteria tests are normally expressed as “Present” (P), or “Absent” (A). In this case, “Present,” indicates only that at least one bacterium was present in each 100 ml of water.

Fecal Coliform Bacteria

Fecal coliform bacteria are a smaller group of bacteria within the coliform bacteria group. Fecal coliform bacteria are specific to the intestinal tracts of warm-blooded animals. If the total coliform test is positive, the lab tests the water sample for fecal coliform bacteria. Fecal coliform bacteria levels are expressed as the number of colonies per 100 ml of water. No fecal coliform bacteria are permitted in public drinking water supplies.

E. Coli

An even more specific bacteria test is the test for E. coli (short for Escherichia coli). This is a type of fecal coliform bacteria commonly found in the intestines of animals and humans. A positive E. coli result is a strong indication that human sewage or animal waste has contaminated the water.

Hundreds of strains of E. coli exist. Although most are harmless and live in the intestines of healthy humans and animals, a few can produce a powerful toxin that causes severe illness and even death. Infection often causes severe bloody diarrhea and abdominal cramps; sometimes the infection causes non-bloody diarrhea. Frequently, no fever is present. It should be noted that these symptoms are common to a variety of diseases and may be caused by sources other than contaminated drinking water. E. coli tests are reported as the number of bacteria per 100 ml of water. The presence of any E. coli in a water sample is unacceptable; thus, the primary drinking water standard for E. coli is 0 per 100 ml of water.

Standard Plate Count (Heterotrophic Plate Count)

The Standard Plate Count (SPC) or Heterotrophic Plate Count (HPC) is a more general indicator of bacterial contamination. On some test reports, this also may be referred to as the “Total Bacteria Count.” It measures all the bacteria, including coliform and many other groups, in a water sample. The SPC is usually reported as the number of bacteria per milliliter of sample. There are no drinking water standards for SPC, but if more than 500 bacteria are counted in one milliliter of sample, further testing for total coliform or fecal coliform bacteria is suggested.

Iron Bacteria

Iron bacteria are a type of bacteria that feed on small amounts of iron in water. Iron bacteria are not a health threat, but are a nuisance because they form strands, masses, or thin films that plug pipes, toilets, and plumbing fixtures and reduce flow from wells. Their appearance can vary from orange or brown to clear. Iron bacteria can colonize an entire water system from the well itself through the plumbing, or they may be present only in parts of the plumbing system. There are no drinking water standards for iron bacteria. Rather, their presence is normally enough of an aesthetic problem to require treatment. Water testing is rarely available to determine if iron bacteria are present. Confirmation is usually based upon the visual symptoms in the water.

Giardia and Cryptosporidium

Giardia lamblia and Cryptosporidium parvum are small microscopic animals known as protozoa. They both can live in the intestinal tract of mammals, including humans. While there, they multiply by producing oocysts. Infected animals and humans can excrete the oocysts, which can then contaminate water sources. Both giardiasis and cryptosporidiosis cause severe diarrhea, nausea, fever, headache, vomiting, and loss of appetite. Both illnesses can be life-threatening to people with depressed immune systems. Most outbreaks have occurred in communities that use surface water supplies (streams, rivers, lakes) where the oocysts can commonly be found. Shallow springs or poorly constructed wells that become contaminated with surface water could also contain Giardia and Cryptosporidium oocysts. Both Giardia and Cryptosporidium are measured in water by passing large volumes of the water through a small filter and examining the filter under a microscope for oocysts. Oocysts should be totally absent for water to be safe to drink.

Inorganic Chemicals (IOCs)

The second category of water contaminants includes inorganic chemicals. These are usually substances of mineral origin. Salt, metals, and minerals are examples of inorganic chemicals. The chemicals discussed alphabetically below are the most common inorganic contaminants in water supplies, or they are of the greatest health concern.

Arsenic (As)

Arsenic occurs in groundwater from both natural sources and human activities, like runoff from orchards or glass and electronics production wastes. In drinking water, it is odorless and tasteless. Arsenic has a primary drinking water stadnard because it can cause skin lesions, circulatory problems, and nervous system disorders.  Prolonged exposure also can cause various forms of cancer.  The present arsenic drinking water standard is 10 ug/L (0.010 mg/L).

 

 

Chloride (Cl)Typically the concentration of chloride ions in water is used to identify saltwater intrusion. Chloride has a secondary drinking water standard of 250 mg/L because it may cause a salty taste in the water.

Copper (Cu)

Copper usually originates from corrosion of copper plumbing in the home (see “Corrosivity,” below). Copper causes a bitter, metallic taste in water and a blue-green stain in sinks and bathtubs. Copper levels above 1.3 mg/L are a health concern because they may cause severe stomach cramps and intestinal illnesses. Copper can be reduced in water using the corrosion control strategies outlined below.

Corrosivity

Corrosive water is a term used to describe aggressive water that can dissolve materials with which it comes in contact. It is a problem because many homes have copper or galvanized pipes, lead solder joints, and brass plumbing fixtures. Thus, corrosive water may cause increases in copper and lead concentrations in drinking water. Symptoms of corrosive water problems include metallic taste, bluish-green stains in sinks and bathtubs, and, in severe cases, small leaks in the plumbing system. Because corrosive water is not a health concern by itself, there is only a secondary standard that water be noncorrosive.

Iron (Fe)

Iron is a common natural problem in groundwater and has a secondary drinking water standard of 0.3 mg/L. Iron does not cause health concerns but causes aesthetic problems such as metallic tastes and orange-brown stains.

Lead (Pb)

If lead is detected in your drinking water, it probably originated from corrosion of your plumbing system. Lead was a common component of solders used in plumbing systems until it was banned in 1991. If your home was built before 1991 and has a metal plumbing system, it is likely some lead is present. If your water supply is corrosive (see discussion above), any lead present in the plumbing system may be dissolved into your drinking water. Lead concentrations are usually highest in the first water out of the tap (known as “first-draw” water), since this water has been in contact with the plumbing for a longer time. Lead concentrations typically decrease as water is flushed through the plumbing system. Lead poses a serious health threat to the safety of drinking water. It is colorless, odorless, and tasteless. Long-term exposure to lead concentrations in excess of the drinking water standard has been linked to many health effects in adults including cancer, stroke, and high blood pressure. At even greater risk are the fetus and infants up to four years of age, whose rapidly growing bodies absorb lead more quickly and efficiently. Lead can cause premature birth, reduced birth weight, seizures, behavioral disorders, brain damage, and lowered IQ in children. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency considers lead to be the most serious environmental health hazard for children in the United States.

In rare cases, the source of lead in drinking water might be from groundwater pollution rather than corrosion of the plumbing system. Such pollution may be the result of industrial or landfill contamination of groundwater. The source of the lead usually can be determined by comparing water test results from a first-draw sample versus a sample collected after the water runs for several minutes. If the lead concentration is high in both samples, the source of the lead is likely from groundwater contamination.

Manganese (Mn)

Like iron, manganese is a naturally occurring metal. It has a secondary drinking water standard of 0.05 mg/L. Manganese does not cause health concerns but causes aesthetic problems such as objectionable tastes or blackish water stains.

Nitrate (NO3) or Nitrate Nitrogen (NO3-N)

Nitrate in drinking water usually originates from fertilizers or from animal or human wastes. Nitrate concentrations in water tend to be highest in areas of intensive agriculture or where there are many septic systems. Nitrate has a primary drinking water standard that was established to protect the most sensitive individuals in the population (infants under 12 months of age, pregnant women, and people with certain blood disorders). These segments of the population are prone to methemoglobinemia (blue baby disease) when consuming water with high nitrate. Nitrate may be reported on your water test report as either nitrate (NO3) or nitratenitrogen (NO3-N). Look carefully at your report to determine which form of nitrate is being reported. The primary drinking water standard or MCL is 10 mg/L as nitratenitrogen(NO3-N).

Turbidity

Drinking water should be sparkling clear for health and aesthetic reasons. Turbidity refers to fine particles of clay, silt, sand, organic matter, or other material that might reduce the clarity of water. Turbidity makes water unappealing to drink because of its muddy appearance. Particles may also shield disease-causing bacteria from chlorine or other treatment and provide nutrients for bacteria and viruses to flourish. Turbidity usually indicates direct pollution from surface runoff often during or shortly after heavy rainfall. Turbidity is usually measured in a special unit known as an NTU or Nephelometric Turbidity Unit. The standard for turbidity depends on the type of water treatment technology used. Water treatment plants using conventional or direct filtration are required to have less than or equal to 0.3 NTU in at least 95% of measurements taken each month. Slow sand and diatomaceous earth filtration plants are required not to exceed 1 NTU in at least 95% of measurements. Water with more than 1 NTU of turbidity makes disinfection to kill bacteria difficult.

Organic Chemicals

Organic chemicals are a group of over 100 mostly man-made chemicals. They can occur in drinking water sources from industrial activity, landfills, gas stations, or pesticide use. Many organic chemicals are carcinogenic (cancer causing), so they often have very low drinking water standards, usually measured in ug/L. 

 

 

Generally, organic chemicals are grouped into two major categories: volatile organic chemicals (VOCs) and synthetic organic chemicals (SOCs). The discussion below introduces these two groups and describes in detail the most common examples in each group;Volatile Organic Chemicals (VOCs)

VOCs are man-made compounds that are released from water into the air. They present a health risk not only from drinking contaminated water, but also from inhaling VOCs that escape from the water as it is used during showering or other home uses. VOCs also are absorbed directly through the skin during bathing and showering. They are commonly used as solvents, fuels, paints, or degreasers. Virtually all VOCs produce an odor in water, although it may not be obvious before the drinking water standard is exceeded. Nearly all VOCs have primary drinking water standards, because they cause cancer or damage to the liver, kidneys, nervous system, or circulatory system. Dozens of VOCs are regulated in public water supplies, but the most common are described below.

Benzene

Benzene is a clear, colorless liquid used primarily as an industrial solvent. It is lighter than water, migrates easily in groundwater, and is slow to decay.  It is also present as a gasoline additive.  Because it is a known human carcinogen (causes cancer), benzene has a primary drinking water standard of 0.005 mg/L (5 ug/L).

 

 

 

Carbon TetrachlorideCarbon tetrachloride is a colorless liquid that is heavier than water but migrates easily in groundwater.  It has been used mostly in the dry-cleaning industry.  Carbon tetrachloride has a primary drinking water standard of 0.005 mg/L (5 ug/L because it is a probable human carcinogen with other acute effects on the gastrointestinal and nervous systems.

Tetrachloroethylene (PCE) and Trichloroethylene (TCE)

Tetrachloroethylene (commonly known as PCE) and Trichloroethylene (commonly known as TCE) are similar chemicals that have been found around industrial sites and landfills. Most of the groundwater contamination from these chemicals occurred due to improper disposal of industrial wastes. Both chemicals are used as industrial solvents. PCE is used primarily in the dry-cleaning industry. Both are heavier than water and move freely through soil and groundwater. PCE is a possible carcinogen that causes liver, kidney, and nervous system damage. TCE is a probable carcinogen that also causes acute effects to the liver, kidneys, and central nervous system. Both PCE and TCE have primary drinking water standars of 0.005 mg/L (5 ug/L).  

 

 

 

XylenesXylenes are a component of gasoline. They also are used in the manufacturing of some chemicals, and therefore appear commonly in industrial wastes. Xylenes cause liver, kidney, and nervous system damage.  Xylenes biodegrade and move slowly in groundwater.  The drinking water standard for xylenes is 10 mg/L (10.000 ug/L).

 

 

 

 

Nonvolatile or Synthetic Organic Chemicals (SOCs)Nonvolatile organic chemicals are also known as Synthetic Organic Chemicals or SOCs. Nearly all SOCs are pesticides, with a few notable exceptions (PCBs and dioxin). They differ from VOCs because they do not escape readily into the air from water.

Atrazine

Atrazine is water-soluble and moves easily into groundwater and surface water after application. Because it is classified as a possible human carcinogen that also damages the liver, kidney, and heart.  Atrazine has a primary drinking water standard of 0.003 mg/L (3 ug/L).

 

 

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Simazine

Simazine is commonly used for control of broad-leaved and grassy weeds on crops, orchards, and Christmas tree farms. It is also used to control plants and algae in ponds and lakes.  Simazine has a primary drinking water standard of 0.004 mg/L (4 ug/L) because it is a probable carcinogen that also can cause damage to the testes, kidneys, liver, and thyroid after long exposure.  Simazine travels easily through soils to groundwater and persist in groundwater for long periods of time.

2,4-D

2,4-D is commonly used to control broad-leaf weeds in agriculture and woody plants along roadsides, railways, and utility rights-of-way. It has been most widely used on wheat and corn, and on pasture and rangelands. 2,4-D has a primary drinking water standardof 0.07 mg/L (70 ug/L) because ti can cause damage to kidneys, liver, or adrenal glands.  2,4-D is readily degraded by microbes located in soil and water.  Leachng to groundwater may occur in coarse-grained sandy soils with low organic content. 

 

 

 

2,4, 5-TP (Silvex)

 

2,4,5-TP, banned since 1985, was used as an herbicide to control woody plants, and broadleaf weeds in rice, bluegrass turf, in rangeland improvement programs, and on lawns. Aquatic uses included control of weeds in ditches, riverbanks, on floodways, along canals, reservoirs, and streams. The primary drinking water standard is 0.05 mg/L (50 ug/L) because it has the potential to cause liver and kidney damage.

 

 

 

 

Picloram

 

Picloram is commonly used to control weeds such as bitterweed, knapweek, leafy spurge, locoweed, larkspur, mesquite, prickly pear, and snakeweed. Picloram has a primary drinking water standard of 0.5 mg/L (500 ug/L) because it can cause liver damage.  Picloram does not adhere to soil and so  it can leach to groundwater.

 

 

 

 

Radionuclides

 

Radioactivity usually occurs in water from radium, uranium, or radon. These materials emit radioactivity as alpha, beta, or gamma radiation. Each form of radiation affects the human body differently, yet all can lead to cancer. Radioactivity in water is normally measured in picocuries per liter (pCi/L).

 

 

Cardinal Environmental wins business friend award

May 18, 2008

Cardinal Environmental of Sheboygan has won the environmental innovation Business Friend of the Environment Award.

Cardinal Environmental is one of nine Wisconsin companies who received the award on May 14 for outstanding achievements in environmental protection. The winners were honored at the 19th Annual Environmental Policy and Awards Conference at the Country Springs Conference Center in Waukesha.

Cardinal Environmental won in the Environmental Innovation category for its role in spearheading a statewide drive for testing for lead paint in toys.

“Cardinal Environmental is a company dedicated to environmental stewardship, protecting the earth and keeping Wisconsin clean for generations to come,” said Scott Manley, director of the Wisconsin Environmental Working Group, the affiliate of WMC, which sponsors the annual awards.

The nine winners were chosen from a field of 45 companies nominated by their peers or the companies themselves. An independent panel of judges, including an environmental regulator, and representatives from industry, environmental groups, and the University of Wisconsin System selected the winners.

Located in Sheboygan for more than 20 years, Cardinal Environmental specializes in environmental consulting services.

By assembling a staff with many years of consulting experience, Cardinal Environmental has developed capabilities in environmental site assessments, asbestos inspection and management planning, occupational safety and health, toxic and hazardous waste management, wastewater sampling and analysis, and air emissions management.

Last September, Cardinal Environmental recognized an opportunity to provide education about childhood lead poisoning, and began holding toy-testing events around the state.

During Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Week in October, Cardinal Environmental joined the Sheboygan Health Department to host a joint toy testing and blood testing event for lead at the health department.

The event was advertised on the radio and in the newspaper that families could have their toys tested for lead, and have their child’s blood tested for lead at the same time. Cardinal Environmental oversaw the toy testing by providing the use of a XRF lead detection machine.

Cardinal Environmental continued the event by working with Aurora Health Systems to offer toy testing events in schools with the hope of reaching families with young children.

Cardinal Environmental also partnered with other business and local public health officials to offer toy testing in December to determine if holiday toys were safe. These events occurred in Stevens Point, Wausau, Marshfield, Wisconsin Rapids and Appleton.

Business Friend of the Environment Award winners are categorized according to number of employees and judged in the areas of pollution prevention, environmental innovation and environmental stewardship

 

http://www.sheboyganpress.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080518/SHE03/805180363/1096/SHE03

 

 

When flooding of an area has occurred, either due to heavy rains or sewer backups, important steps must be taken to assure the health and safety of individuals involved. It must be assumed during cleanup operations that all surfaces have been contaminated with disease-causing organisms. This important assumption must be considered in decisions involving personal safety of cleanup personnel as well as what items may be salvaged and what must be discarded.

PERSONAL PROTECTION MEASURES

*Only individuals necessary for cleanup should be in affected areas. Persons with respiratory health problems (e.g., asthma, emphysema) should NOT perform the clean up. Children and pets should not be allowed in these areas.

*Boots and rubber gloves should be worn at all times. In cases where rigorous splashing of contaminated water may occur, a dust mask and eye protection should also be worn.

*When using a bleach solution, open windows to provide good ventilation.

*At no time should cuts or open sores be left exposed.

*Do not smoke, eat or drink during clean up.

*A tetanus booster is recommended every 10 years. If you are in need of a tetanus immunization, contact your physician or local Public Health.

GENERAL SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

*Be absolutely certain that there is no hazard of electrical shock! Wear rubber boots in wet areas until it is certain no electrical hazard exists.

*Turn off main switches and unplug electrical appliances in wet areas.

*Do not tun on any appliances which have become wet until they have been thoroughly dried and checked for proper operation.

*Do not use matches or any other open flame until the area has been thoroughly ventilated from natural gas. The gas supply to all appliances in flooded areas should be shut off until the appliance has been checked.

CLEAN UP PROCEDURES

*Bacteria, viruses, mold, fungi, etc., must be killed in the clean up process. The most widely-accepted, safe, and effective sanitizing agent is hypochlorite in the form of household bleach. For all following procedures, the bleach solution referred to is one cup of bleach to one gallon of water. This will give a sufficient strength to kill organisms.

Time is an important consideration in clean up. Organisms to be killed will not become airborne as long as they remain wet. As long as surfaces remain we, the only way organisms can enter the body and cause disease is by splashing into the mouth, eyes, open cuts, etc. Once dried, organisms can be spread on dust particles by air movement. It is, therefore, important to bring the bleach solution in contact with contaminated surfaces as soon as possible after rinsing off heavy soil. In order to prevent decomposition and rotting of wet items, immediate drying after disinfecting is necessary/

Once the water has receded, the following steps should be taken:

*Assure that the above personal protection and general safety steps have been taken.

*Determine what items will have to be discarded and remove them for disposal. Generally, if the bleach solution can be made to come in contact with all surfaces, an item may be salvageable. Stuffed furniture, pillows, and mattresses will have to be discarded. Indoor/outdoor carpeting and rugs may be salvageable. Thick wall to wall carpets and padding will have to be discarded or professionally treated.

*Thoroughly rinse all visible soil from all items to be salvaged. Rinse the walls from several inches above the highest level the water reached to the floor. Carefully hose behind any base coving to remove all soil. Hose down the entire floor.

*Prepare the bleach solution of one cup of household bleach to one gallon of water. Smaller items may be immersed in this solution. Hand scrub larger items with the solution. Pour this solution on the walls several inches up from the highest level reached by the floodwaters and over the entire floor. Make sure all affected surfaces have been contacted with the solution. An effective method is to use a broom or mop to splash the solution on the walls and over tall of the floor.

*If water has reached more than a few inches up the walls, hollow walls will have to be opened. Cut off the portion of the drywall that has become wet. Saturate the remaining studs with the bleach solution.

*Using various methods, dry all surfaces as much as possible (the bleach solution needs 15 minutes to kill organisms.) The wettest areas can be squeegeed or mopped to a floor drain. A wet/dry vacuum can be used on flat surfaces to further remove remaining water. Using fans and/or a dehumidifier, thoroughly ventilate the rooms to dry all surfaces.

*Indoor/outdoor carpeting and rugs need a very thorough treatment if they are to be safely salvaged. Remove them to a flat area such as a driveway. Hose down both sides of the carpet several times to thoroughly remove all soil. Follow this with several buckets of the bleach solution on each side, scrubbing with a broom. Then rinse both sides with clear water. Remove as much water as possible with a wet/dry vacuum and allow to thoroughly dry.

*Over the next weeks, replace disposable furnace filters or clean permanent filters with the bleach solution at least two times to reduce trapped mold spores.

 

The above information provided by the Sheboygan County Division of Public Health:

 

 

Easter is an appropriate day to report that the village of Montrouis in Haiti now has a source of affordable clean water!  This is a renewal of hope for kids at the orphanage, patients at the clinic, students at the schools, and all those in the area who risk disease every time they drink or cook with untreated surface water. Please feel some pride in this achievement –because you played a key role in making it happen.   On behalf of our US team … THANK YOU!On behalf or the Board of Bon Samaritain in Montrouis … THANK YOU!   On behalf of the Haitians you’re now helping every day … THANK YOU!  Tim 

 From Concept to customers in 5 months

Doing laundry at the Montrouis River……and the Water station October 2007

Given that Montrouis enjoys government electricity only for hours at a time

every 3 or 4  days on average ..

we reluctantly installed two 400-gallon tanks for holding clean water.

Laying pipe from well to water station 

 

moving the masonry, electrical, plumbing, ironwork, and equipment went into the upper level.

the key part to the water station

and we passed the intergrity test

  the new water station completedthe announcement of free safe water at the  Easter church service

 

Villagers camer in droves to get the clean safe water…………….Our new pump

clean safe water for the schoolsfor the orphansand for the clinicsThank you

 

We know we’re not done yet.  We want to install a solar power source 

so we can bypass the tanks and vend fresh water from a “closed” system.  

We’d like to ozonate some water for sanitizing the containers and 

we’d like to design, mass-produce, and use more sanitary and ergonomic containers.  

When we find a way to sell in affordable 20-ounce plastic bottles AND recycle them, 

we will institute a “bottle deposit” program. 

We need a simple and cheap way to test the water on a continuing basis.  

We have to outfit a truck to take clean water to places beyond walking distance.

So as the project continues,

Water, our most precious commodity, never wears out BUT it can become contaminated. The safety of our water can not be taken for granted and testing your drinking water is an excellent way to monitor it. Although water may look, smell, and taste fine, it may be harmful to your health. Municipal water systems test their water regularly to ensure it’s safe, but it’s up to private well owners to test their well water annually. It’s one of the simplest things you can do to take care of the health and well-being of yourself and those you love. Fortunately for us, it is possible to treat almost any water problem with proper treatment equipment. This can be done safely, reliably, and at a reasonable cost. The following terms will help you understand the results of your water test.*COLIFORM BACTERIA – Bacteriological safety of water supplies is based on analyses for Coliform Bacteria. These bacteria are present in large numbers in the soil and in the digestive tracts of humans and animals. The do not usually cause disease but their presence in water is an indication of contamination from surface water or septic waste. Any waste material contamination your water is unnatural, and suggests that pathogenic (disease causing) organisms may also be present. Such water is judged as “UNSAFE” for human consumption. Bacteriological “SAFE” means there is an absence of Coliform Bacteria.*NITRATES – 10 mg/1 NO3-N (ten milligrams per liter [parts per million] nitrate and nitrate nitrogen) is the maximum standard for drinking water in this country. A nitrate level above 10mg/1 in drinking water may cause serious health effects in infants and may indicate the presence of farm chemicals – even pesticides, in your water. A disease called methemoglobinemia (Blue Baby Syndrome) can be caused by nitrates to infants under 6 months of age. Nitrates in water are generally unnatural, but background levels of 1mg/1 or less are not unusual. Elevated levels should be monitored frequently.

*FLUORIDE – Fluoride as it occurs naturally in water supplies or in public drinking water, has been shown to be effective in reducing dental cavities. A level of 1.0 mg/l is desirable, but a level above 2.4 mg/L is likely to cause staining of teeth. Children regularly drinking water with close to or greater than 1.0 mg/l of fluoride should not receive fluoride supplements, and the family dentist should be informed of the fluoride level in the water.

*ARSENIC – Arsenic is a toxic element, and is widespread in the environment due to its natural occurrence and former extensive use in herbicides and pesticides. The most common, natural occurrence of arsenic is our diets; arsenic is found in many foods. Horizontal white lines on the toenails and fingernails indicate chronic arsenic poisoning. Other symptoms may include numbness and tingling in arms and legs, weight loss, nausea and diarrhea alternating with constipation, and loss of hair. Arsenic poisoning can make people tired, lethargic and depressed without showing other long-term symptoms. The EPA and DNR consider levels above 50 parts per billion in drinking water harmful.

*IRON AND/OR SULFUR BACTERIA – Because iron is one of the most abundant minerals in the earth’s crust, it is very common in groundwater. Most people are probably familiar with what happens when there is too much iron in water – a reddish-brown color, stained laundry and poor tasting coffee. An equally common but less understood problem is infestation of water supplies with iron bacteria. These microorganisms combine mineral iron or manganese in the water with oxygen and use it to form rust-colored deposits. In the process, the bacteria produce a brown slime that builds up on well screens, pipes, and plumbing fixtures. A “rotten egg” smell is often caused by the presence of sulfur bacteria that produce hydrogen sulfide gas. Hydrogen sulfide gas is highly corrosive and can eat away plumbing connections and metal piping, including your well casing. Iron and sulfur bacteria are not harmful but can clog pipes and plumbing fixtures, produce odors, and provide a habitat for other bacteria to live including coliform bacteria.

Important: Be aware of your water condition. Be aware of the activities in your area that can contaminate your water. ALWAYS check your water after flooding. For more information on getting your well water tested, check your phone book or on line for ” Laboratories – Testing”, or “Environmental Services.” You can also contact your local public health agency for a list of laboratories certified to perform coliform testing.

Technical information provided by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources and the University of Wisconsin Central Wisconsin Groundwater Center.*

Wells tapping ground water resources can provide drinking water of the highest quality. Owning a private household-supply water well allows homeowners to control their own water supply. Ownership also comes with the responsibility of keeping the water well in good working order.If your family gets drinking water from a private well, do you know if your water is safe to drink? What health risks could you and your family face? Where can you go for help or advice?

Typically, well water is required to be evaluated for microbiological contamination only at the time the well is installed. Some health departments have begun requiring microbiological testing when the property changes ownership as well. During routine operation, however, it is up to the well owner to monitor and ensure the quality of their well water supply.

Proper well construction and continued maintenance are keys to the safety of your water supply. Your state water-well contractor licensing agency, local health department, or local water system professional can provide information on well construction.

Protect your own well area. Be careful about storage and disposal of household and lawn care chemicals and wastes. Good farmers and gardeners minimize the use of fertilizers and pesticides. Take steps to reduce erosion and prevent surface water runoff. Regularly check underground storage tanks that hold home heating oil, diesel, or gasoline. Make sure your well is protected from the wastes of livestock, pets, and wildlife.

There are several basic tests that private well owners may wish to consider having performed on their well water supplies to determine its quality. Many county health departments offer water testing, or you may want to consider using an accredited private testing laboratory.

• Microbiological testing for total coliform should be performed annually to determine if any bacteria are present in the water supply.
• To determine impact of nearby agricultural operations or on-site septic system, private well users should have their water analyzed each year for nitrates/nitrites.

You should continue to monitor the quality of your well water at least annually. This continuing analysis will help you to determine if the quality of your well water has changed during the previous year.   If you have questions or concerns, you should contact your local health department, or government agency. 

 

History lesson on Asbestos;

credits to Dave Austin

Asbestos was named by the ancient Greeks who recognized certain hazards of the material, and noted that the material damaged the lungs of the slaves who wove it into cloth. Wealthy Persians, who owned asbestos cloths, amazed their guests by cleaning the cloth simply by exposing it to fire. Some of the Persians believed the fiber was fur from an animal that lived in fire, and died when exposed to water. Some archeologists believe that ancients made shrouds of asbestos so they could burn the bodies of their kings in order to preserve only their ashes, and prevent those ashes from being mixed with wood or other combustible materials commonly used in funeral pyres. Asbestos became more widespread during the industrial revolution. Beginning in the 1860s, it was used as insulation in the U.S. and Canada. The first commercial asbestos mine began in 1879 in the Appalachian Mountains of Quebec. By the mid 20th century uses included fire retardant coatings, concrete, bricks, pipes and fireplace cement, heat, fire, and acid resistant gaskets, pipe insulation, ceiling insulation, fireproof drywall, flooring, roofing, lawn furniture, and drywall joint compound. There are 3 basic types of asbestos: White Asbestos, or Chrysotile, which is obtained from serpentine rocks that are common throughout the world. The rocks are called serpentine because their fibers curl. Chrysotile is used more than any other type, and accounts for about 95% of the asbestos found in buildings in America. Applications where chrysotile might be used include the use of joint compound, vinyl floor tiles, sheeting, and adhesives. Brown asbestos or Amosite, and Blue asbestos or Crocidolite, are no longer produced, but may persist in old structures and products. Crocidolite and Amosite contain long fibers, when inhaled, can trigger cancer and respiratory disease up to 60 years later. 95% of all asbestos ever used in the United States is white, chrysolite, and most of it has been imported from Canada. This is very different from the blue and brown varieties that are made of sharp needle like fibers. The blue and brown types have never been used widely in the United States except for in World War II, when blue asbestos was imported from South Africa for naval shipbuilding. This is just about the only exception. Brown asbestos has been used very rarely in old factory buildings. And it is very important to note that the only form of asbestos ever used in schools or public buildings is white asbestos. So why is asbestos a concern? Asbestos is made up of microscopic bundles of fibers that may become airborne when distributed. These fibers get into the air and may become inhaled into the lungs, where they may cause health problems such as:

Asbestosis – a lung disease caused by asbestos fibers that are trapped in the lung tissue. This leads to scarring of the lung tissue and may become so severe that the lungs cannot function.

Mesothelioma – a cancer of the outer lining of the lung and chest cavity and/ or the lining of the abdominal wall.

Lung Cancer – caused by asbestos. The effects of lung cancer are often greatly increased by cigarette smoking (by about 50 times). Cancer of the gastrointestinal tract can also be caused by asbestos.

Bottom line…..when in doubt hire a professional to inspect the area, before you start your building or remodeling projects.

 

Helping you keep your family safe. Who DOES that?  Cellcom in Partnership with Cardinal Environmental and INNOV X Systems. 

Get your Christmas toys tested.

FREE, Toy LEAD testing. Stop in to get your toys checked at these Cellcom locations.

December 11 in Stevens Point, 641 A Division Street, from 10am to 2pm (715.344.3341)

December 11 in Rib Mountain, Rib, 3804 Rib Mountain Dr., from 4pm to 8pm (715.241.7997)

December 12 in Marshfield, 1645 N Central Ave., from 9am to 1pm (715.389.2724)

December 12 in Wisconsin Rapids, 1847 8^th St. South, from 3pm to 7pm (715.421.0707)

December 15 in Appleton, W3178 Van Roy Road, from 10am to 2pm (920.224.6360) (Limit 2 toys per family)Presented by Cellcom, In Partnership with: Cardinal Environmental, and INNOV.X SYSTEMS

Last Update: 11/09 3:48 pm  You can have your children’s toys tested for free on November 23 at Channel 5’s Valley Bureau in Little Chute from 11am to 7pm.(WFRV) – Several major toy companies have begun using independent labs to test their products for lead; but how do you know if your children’s toys are toxic?A Sheboygan environmental company is helping to ease worried parents’ minds. The agency uses an XRF analyzer to test items for even the smallest amount of lead in under 10 seconds.“I think for a lot of parents it just takes the worry out,” says Sue Kaiser, a certified lead risk assessor with Cardinal Environmental.You can’t tell just by looking at an item whether or not it has lead in the paint. “We find certain colors that are notorious for having lead in them – reds, yellows – that doesn’t necessarily hold true for toys,” Kaiser notes.

If you find some toys that do test positive for lead, it’s important to get your children tested, also. It only takes a simple blood test.

You can have your children’s toys tested for free on November 23 at Channel 5’s Valley Bureau in Little Chute from 11am to 7pm.

Take Highway 41 to the County N exit in Little Chute. The Channel 5 offices are located just south of County N on Patriot Drive.

Two toys per person will be allowed for testing by Cardinal Environmental.

Lead poisoning is serious, especially in kids under 6 years of age, because it affects brain development.

So far in 2007, Wisconsin has not had a reported case of lead poisoning caused by a toy.