Protecting Food from Airborne Contaminants: What Can You Do?

Clean Air Solution by Camfil USA. Leader in Air Filters for Commercial and Industrial applications.

Airborne contaminants at food processing facilities represent a serious threat to the safety of food and people’s health. Particles like dust, bacteria, mold, and yeast can get into food and cause health problems for those who ingest the food. How can proper air filtration and sanitization policies assist in protecting food from airborne contaminants?

What are Common Airborne Contaminants at Food Processing Facilities?

One of the most common airborne contaminants in food processing facilities are bioaerosols. Bioaerosols are airborne contaminants made up of liquid or solid microscopic particles which carry microbes through the air.

“Bioaerosols are frequently created when a source of microbes is disturbed, which launches the particles into the air where they remain suspended for varying lengths of time, depending upon their size and airflow patterns for example,” says Mark Davidson, Camfil USA Food & Beverage Segment Manager. “Bioaerosols could be created by using high-pressure hoses to wash down holding pens, the use of compressed air lines without filters, by poorly installed air handling units, as well as foot or vehicle traffic through stagnant water. Bioaerosols can also originate in neighboring buildings or fields. Whether originating from inside or outside the food processing facility.  These bioaerosols can come to rest on food or on contact surfaces where preparation work is performed.” (1)

The most common bioaerosols include microorganisms like Salmonella, E. coli, Listeria, Bacillus, and Clostridium. Yeasts and molds are also common sources of contamination, and they frequently become predominant in food processing facilities when conditions for bacterial growth aren’t optimal, such as on foods with a high amount of salt. Viruses such as norovirus and hepatitis A are also common contaminants.

What Are the Effects of Contamination at Food Processing Facilities?

The effects of contamination in food processing are twofold. Contamination can cause significant product loss during production, reduced shelf life or product returns. These added expenses are a financial burden on the profitability of a facility. Far more important however is the negative effects on public health created by contaminated food.   Bacteria and viruses can all cause different foodborne illnesses that can have a variety of different effects on people’s health but are the most dangerous to the very young, the very old, pregnant women, and people with poor immune systems.

“Salmonella, E. coli, and Listeria all cause the diseases associated with exposure to these pathogens. Bacterial-based foodborne illnesses are typically contracted by ingesting the food in question,” says Davidson at Camfil. “Common symptoms of infection from foodborne illnesses include vomiting, abdominal pain, chills, fever, and diarrhea.” (2)

Exposure to Clostridium botulinum can cause the disease botulism which can cause headaches, blurred vision, weakness, paralysis, and dizziness. Botulism can be fatal, so it is extremely important that potential sources of botulism are neutralized immediately.

Viral infections such as norovirus can cause inflammation of the stomach and intestines, and people can pass the virus to one another rather easily.

How to Protect Food from Airborne Contaminants with Air Filtration

A food processing facility with a carefully developed HACCP plan should identify the critical areas where hazards can occur. One method to control the hazard of bioaerosols contamination is with the proper air filtration.

Broadly speaking, there may be up to three types of air filtration systems in a food processing facility. The main HVAC system that brings air into the facility which is typically located on the roof and controls the heating and cooling in the building. Second; filters that protect the air entering into a specific piece of equipment can be thought of as process filters. The HEPA filters protecting aseptic systems are a good example of this. Finally, food processing plants may have stand-alone individual air purification systems that are strategically located near areas known to generate contaminants.

Food processing facilities should be constructed with the placement of the HVAC systems optimized to ensure exposure to bioaerosols remains as low as possible, and the proper filters should be chosen to capture these bioaerosols.

“One of the primary sources of contaminants and bioaerosols is water, and a facility’s own HVAC system could be the culprit. HVAC systems should be designed to ensure that water does not pool in them. Cooling coils, drip trays, and evaporative condensers should be maintained and checked often for the possibility of contaminated water,” explains Davidson, “Optimal airflow management is also important for reducing the spread of bioaerosols, and a good principle to follow is that the more hygienic an area must be, the higher the pressure of that area should be.” (3)

“In those areas identified as potential sources of internally generated contaminants or where additional airflow is required to maintain a higher pressure, stand-alone air purification systems can add that missing layer of protection against airborne contamination.”

Properly designed filtration systems are wasted if the appropriate air filters are not selected. High-efficiency filters should be employed to capture bioaerosols. Be sure to look for filters labeled with both a MERV and MERV-A rating.  The – A is a  designation, such as MERV 13-A, which means that the filter has been tested in conditions designed to simulate real-world situations, and will not drop in efficiency over time like filters only rated with a single MERV value.

It is the responsibility of each individual facility to determine the specific MERV rating to use, if  HEPA filters are needed or if additional stand-alone purifiers are required. Each application and process is different and no one solution is suitable for all.

What Can You Do to Protect Food from Airborne Contaminants?

Protecting food from airborne contaminants is a matter of public health and the responsibility of those who work at food processing plants. Those responsible for air quality at food processing facilities should be sure to consult with qualified professionals who can help you determine possible sources of dangerous bacteria and bioaerosols both inside and outside of the plant. Plant managers should also contract with licensed professionals to ensure that proper installation and regular maintenance of air filtration systems is performed.

If you need help determining the best HVAC air filters to protect food from airborne contaminants like bioaerosols, contact Camfil air filtration today.

SOURCES

http://www.deibellabs.com/index.php/featured/378-air-monitoring-in-food-plants

https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/foodborne-illnesses

http://www.wifoodprotection.org/docs/7%20David%20Mathieu%20Proper%20AIr%20Handling%20.pdf

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Camfil Awards H&R REIT MSLP – F1RST Tower The Exclusive Energy Cost Index (ECI) Award

Clean Air Solution by Camfil USA. Leader in Air Filters for Commercial and Industrial applications.

Calgary, AB, December 6, 2017 –  Camfil, the leading global manufacturer of air filtration products, awards H&R REIT MSLP – F1RST Tower, of Calgary, Alberta with the prestigious 5-Star Energy award.  F1RST Tower qualified for this award by demonstrating their continued commitment to saving energy while providing quality indoor air throughout their Alberta facility.  F1RST Tower’s selection of air filters have the 5-Star Energy Cost Index (ECI) rating placing the company in the top 20% of customers worldwide that have chosen to make a difference in energy usage globally.

Presented by Jon Holmes of Camfil Canada, the award recognizes facilities that conserve our natural resources and put their employees, visitors and customers first when improved indoor air quality is considered.  In the average commercial building, 50% of the energy bill is for the HVAC system — 30% of which is directly related to the air filtration.  The selection of 5-Star premium air filtration products can reduce a building’s HVAC energy costs by 20%, its installation costs by 50% and its disposal costs by 70% — all while boosting indoor air quality.

F1RST Tower was nominated by Jon Holmes, Camfil’s Territory Manager for Alberta, who presented the award to Jon Cromwell, H&R REIT MSLP’s Operations Manager, on November 1, 2017.  After 14 months, F1RST Tower reports significant savings in their facility’s energy, waste, and labour, and now proudly displays the award at their facility.  “By selecting the Camfil product lines, including the HiFlo ES bag filters, we continue to provide a high level of air filtration to our occupied spaces with reduced labour for installation.  Due to the longevity and durability of the product line, we dramatically reduce disposal volumes of expended materials”.

ABOUT CAMFIL

Headquartered in Stockholm, Sweden, Camfil is a global leader in the air filtration industry with more than half a century of experience in developing and manufacturing sustainable clean air solutions that protect people, processes and the environment against harmful airborne particles, gases and emissions.  Camfil products are used globally to benefit human health, increase performance and reduce energy consumption in a wide range of air filtration applications.  Camfil’s 26 manufacturing plants, six R&D sites, local sales offices and 3,800 employees provide service and support to customers worldwide.

 

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How to Deal with the Dangers of Air Pollution from Charbroiling

Clean Air Solution by Camfil USA. Leader in Air Filters for Commercial and Industrial applications.

HVAC Air Filter company for Restaurants Camfil goes over Effects of Air Pollution from Charbroiling.

While many people think of air pollution as primarily being released by factories and motor vehicles, an often-overlooked source of air pollution is restaurants that charbroil food. The air pollution from charbroiling can have substantial impacts on people’s health, including increasing the chance a person will develop cancer. It’s important to be aware of the dangers posed by restaurants that charbroil and to take the necessary steps to reduce air pollution from the charbroiling process itself.

What Are the Emissions Created by Restaurants that Charbroil?

In terms of the emissions created by restaurants that charbroil their food, much of the pollution is particulate matter. The particulate matter measurement barometer related to charbroiling refers to tiny particles, the smallest of which are less than 2.5 microns across and referred to as PM2.5.

PM2.5 particles are made up of tiny liquid or solid droplets include black carbon, a light-absorbing particle, which is a major component of soot. Black carbon and particulate emissions in general typically arise from the incomplete combustion of objects, such as biofuels and the charbroiling of food.

“Researchers from the University of California Riverside found that the amount of particulate matter emissions released by charbroiling a single hamburger patty is approximately equivalent to the emissions produced by an 18 wheeler diesel engine truck driving for 140 miles on a freeway,” says Charlie Seyffer, Manager of Marketing & Technical Materials at Camfil. (1)

The reason for this is when meat is charbroiled on the grill, all of the water vapor, smoke, and other particles are sent into the air. When the grills are run for hours at a time, the amount of emissions can quickly stack up.

What Are the Effects of Air Pollution from Charbroiling?

The effects of air pollution from charbroiling include the possibility of heart attacks, lung damage, aggravated asthma, increased risk of cancer, and premature death due to lung and/or heart disease.

Particulate matter pollution can get into the lungs and cause lung irritation, which can result in decreased lung function. It can also aggravate chronic lung diseases, and negatively impact heart function by causing the release of chemicals that damage the heart. Particulate matter also increases the risk of damage from both bacterial and viral pathogens, leading to conditions like pneumonia.

“The charbroiling of food can also release particulate matter containing polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). Repeated exposure to PAHs can lead to kidney and liver damage, and has been correlated with the development of cancer in some research on animals,” says Seyffer. “Studies conducted on those exposed to PAHs as well as other chemicals found an increased risk of lung, skin, and gastrointestinal cancers.” (2)

How Can Reducing Air Pollution from Charbroiling Restaurants Be Achieved?

Reducing air pollution from charbroiling restaurants can be achieved through a variety of approaches. Regulatory standards and technological fixes should both be implemented to reduce air pollution from charbroiling restaurants.

One of the most effective ways of reducing air pollution from restaurants that charbroil food would be to instantiate emissions regulations for them. Very few regulations currently exist for restaurants. There should also be a focus on creating the sort of technology that would assist in cheaply and efficiently reducing these emissions.  

“New York City recently introduced legislation that would require the use of emissions control devices on restaurants across the city’s five boroughs. New emissions control devices referred to as wet scrubber systems cut down on particulate matter emissions at a much cheaper price than old electrostatic precipitators,” explains Seyffer. “This is an example of technological advancements and regulation working hand-in-hand to reduce emissions.” (3)

What Can You Do to Cut Down on Air Pollution from Charbroiling?

Cutting down on air pollution from charbroiling is a shared responsibility. Regardless of whether you own or work in a restaurant, try to be sure that emissions regulating technology like scrubbers and HVAC systems are properly installed and used. They are the best way to protect yourself and others against irreversible medical conditions that if left untreated, could prove to be deadly.

If you need help determining the best filters to protect yourself against particulate matter and other air pollution from charbroiling, contact Camfil now. A Camfil filter representative will be able to help you decide on the best filters to use and the best emissions limiting devices to employ.

SOURCES

http://bit.ly/2D7RBap

http://bit.ly/2AUGPxW

http://bit.ly/2D8K2jC

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Learn How to Protect Yourself from Lung Damage from Air Pollution

Clean Air Solution by Camfil USA. Leader in Air Filters for Commercial and Industrial applications.

Here is How Lung Damage from Air Pollution Happens explained by HVAC air filtration company of Camfil USA air filters.

Air pollution leads to the development of millions of respiratory illnesses and premature deaths every year, due to the damage caused by breathing in various air pollutants. It’s important to understand exactly how lung damage from air pollution occurs, as well as what steps can be taken to protect oneself from lung damage due to air pollution exposure

What Are the Types of Air Pollution that Cause Lung Damage?

There are several types of air pollutants that can cause lung damage. The EPA recognizes four primary air pollutants that are the most ubiquitous and have the most damaging impacts on human health. These air pollutants are nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide, ozone and particulate matter.

Sulfur dioxide is a colorless toxic gas, part of the larger group of chemicals referred to as sulfur oxides. It is primarily released into the air by the burning of fossil fuels at industrial facilities and power plants. Nitrogen dioxide is a highly reactive gas and it comes primarily from emissions released by trucks, cars, and power plants.

“Ozone at ground level is not emitted straight into the air like sulfur dioxide and nitrogen dioxide, but it is created through a chemical process that happens when nitrogen, as well as volatile organic compounds, react to sunlight,” says Kevin Wood, Vice President Sales & Marketing at Camfil USA. “Ozone is beneficial in the high atmosphere where it protects us from ultraviolet radiation, but at ground level, it is a toxic pollutant that has a variety of negative health effects on people’s lungs.” (1)

Particulate matter is one of the most dangerous air pollutants. Particulate matter is the collective term for tiny liquid or solid particles that are found in the air such as dirt, soot, smoke, and bioaerosols. They are subdivided into three categories: PM10 which is around 10 µm across and potentially visible to the human eye, PM2.5 which is smaller than 2.5 µm or smaller than the width of a single human hair, and PM1 which are 1 micron and smaller and are by far the most prevalent size by count in any atmospheric air sample.

What Are the Effects of Air Pollution on Lungs?

The effects of air pollution on lungs vary, depending on the type of pollution, the length of exposure, and the individual person. However, the most consistent and likely effects of air pollution exposure are the cause or exacerbation of asthma, the development of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and emphysema, and the increased risk of developing lung cancer.

Asthma can be caused by all four criteria air pollutants, and more than 20 million people in the United States including around six million children struggle with asthma. Ozone exposure is thought to be one of the primary contributors to asthma, and it can collect in extremely high concentrations in urban environments during the summer. Relatively low amounts of ozone exposure can cause shortness of breath, throat irritation, coughing and chest pain.

“Chronic obsessive pulmonary disease is a permanent condition that involves the narrowing of the airways caused by continuous exposure to the pollutants that create inflammation. Inflammation is an immunological response intended to protect the body from these air pollutants,” says Wood. “However, the inflammatory response can also damage the lung tissue in a condition referred to as either chronic bronchitis when it happens in the larger airways or as emphysema when it happens in the lung’s smaller passageways.” (2)

Exposure to particulate matter is dangerous because the particles are so small that they can easily penetrate the tissue of the lungs and cause damage. While our natural defenses can protect us from larger particles, the small particles of air pollution can easily bypass those defenses and damage the lungs resulting in heart attacks, asthma, overall decreases in lung function, difficulty breathing, lung cancer, and premature death.

Particulate matter pollution irritates the lungs and causes an immunological response that leads to an increased permeability of lung tissue, which can further aggravate the severity of pre-existing respiratory diseases.

How to Prevent Lung Damage from Air Pollution

The best way to prevent lung damage from air pollution and protect yourself from developing lung diseases is to stay informed about the air quality in your local area. You can view reports about your local air quality and air pollution at Airnow.gov, managed by the EPA.

“If air pollution levels are high, try to limit time spent outdoors. Avoid exercising outdoors if possible, and if you must spend time outdoors, do so at night when air pollution levels are lowest. Avoid high traffic areas, and if air pollution is extremely high, employ industry-grade filtration masks,” states Wood. “At home, make sure your HVAC system is properly installed and maintained, with high-efficiency filters employed.” (3)

What Can You do to Stop Lung Damage from Air Pollution?

You can do your part to reduce air pollution emissions by using less energy in your house, and by walking, carpooling, or using public transportation to reduce emissions from your car. Don’t burn trash, and always use chemical cleaners responsibly.

If you need help determining the right type of HVAS air filters to prevent lung damage from air pollution, contact Camfil today. Camfil will be able to advise you on the different types of filters and tell you which filters are the most effective against the criteria air pollutants.

SOURCES

http://bit.ly/2D2R5cx

http://bit.ly/2nnKYZp

http://bit.ly/2D5z3qj

 

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How to Improve Office Productivity – Reduce Air Pollution in Offices

Clean Air Solution by Camfil USA. Leader in Air Filters for Commercial and Industrial applications.

Camfil USA air filters have created a new blog post that educates on how to combat air pollution in offices to increase productivity.

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It is common knowledge that air pollution is bad for people’s health, but it can also impact people’s productivity. Air pollution in offices can lead to less productivity, largely because of the negative effects on the health of office workers. This means that improving air quality in offices will also improve the productivity of workers. Why does air pollution harm productivity, and what tactics can be employed to raise both air quality and productivity?

Health Impacts of Air Pollution in Offices

“The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) explains that the health impacts of air pollution in offices can include fever, shortness of breath, cough, headaches, and general tiredness,” says Kevin Wood, Vice President Sales & Marketing at Camfil USA

. “In some cases, more serious conditions such as asthma and pneumonia have been linked to poor air quality in offices. Symptoms that occur at work but disappear when one leaves work are likely indicators of air quality problems in the workplace.” (1)

Health conditions associated with indoor air pollution are caused by indoor air pollutants such as mold, vapor from cleaning chemicals, humidity, dust, cigarette smoke, and emissions from heating or air-conditioning systems. Lack of adequate ventilation exacerbates these problems.

The health impacts of indoor air pollution depend on the type of pollutant a person is exposed to and for how long they are exposed to it. Exposure to high levels of pollutants over extended periods of time can even lead to the development of life-threatening illnesses like cancer, this is particularly true of cigarette smoke or other particulate pollution. Other pollutants such as carbon monoxide can lead to death within minutes if concentrations of it in the air are high.

The health impacts of indoor air pollutants are also dependent upon the biology of the individual. Some people will not have severe allergic reactions to certain pollutants, but other people will. Exposure to low levels of chemicals can trigger asthmatic reactions in some people, but not in others. Those with pre-existing conditions are at particular risk for exposure to indoor air pollutants.

Effects of Air Pollution in Offices on Productivity

The effects of air pollution in offices on productivity have been studied, and study after study has confirmed that air pollution is negatively correlated with worker productivity. The better the air quality is, the better the average worker will perform.

“One recent study done by Harvard business review found that the average worker is 5 to 6% more productive when the air they work in is rated as good by the EPA, as opposed to working in air rated as unhealthy by the EPA,” says Wood. “This fact remained constant even when outdoor air pollution levels were fairly low.” (2)

A separate study by Syracuse University and Harvard University corroborated these findings. It tested employees in a variety of different pollution levels, using multiple testing areas which had different levels of carbon dioxide. The employees who worked in the low pollution condition performed their tasks 60% better than a group who was tested under standard pollution levels.

This phenomenon is attributable to the health impacts that poor air quality has. When workers are feeling ill, stricken with a cough, headaches, or other symptoms they perform worse. Beyond that, particulate matter can often be absorbed into the bloodstream where it can travel to the brain itself, causing inflammation of the central nervous system. Heightened exposure to fine particle pollution is correlated with diminished performance in cognitive tasks and general intelligence.  

Positive air quality leads to better health. Employees who work in green-certified buildings often experience fewer headaches and respiratory issues than their counterparts in more polluted buildings.

Combating Air Pollution in Offices

Combating air pollution in offices must be done by management, maintenance, and employees alike. Good air quality is a shared responsibility, and it affects everyone. Management and maintenance should ensure that ventilation systems are functioning properly, and employees can ensure that any spills or accidents that generate air pollution are reported to the proper authorities.

Office building occupants can ensure that air vents are not blocked, that any spills or damaged equipment are reported, that all garbage is properly disposed of, and that chemical cleaners are properly used and stored. Sources of air pollution should be quickly removed from the building, or isolated if removal is not possible.

“Management and maintenance team should work together to be certain that HVAC systems are properly installed and maintained, that air filters are not clogged, and that water is not pooling in ducts or vents,” said Wood. “Regular inspections should be done to ensure that heating and cooling systems are functioning properly, that no dust or debris from construction is accumulating, and that leaks or floods are responded to in a timely and efficient manner.” (3)

Air pollution in offices is a serious problem that impacts people’s health and livelihood, not just productivity. All occupants of a building should work together to educate one another on the dangers of air pollution, and to make sure that indoor air quality remains high.

If your office needs a professional consultation to purchase filters to fight air pollution in offices, contact Camfil as soon as possible.

SOURCES

http://bit.ly/2FqGpTx

http://bit.ly/2EwyjHB

http://bit.ly/2k2VKDa

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How to Establish the Human Right to Clean Air

Clean Air Solution by Camfil USA. Leader in Air Filters for Commercial and Industrial applications.

Clean air may not traditionally be thought of as a human right, but access to clean air is necessary for a person to live, so it makes sense to start fighting for a human right to clean air.

in this article on the topics of fighting for the human right to clean air, camfil usa  air filter leader has taken the initiative to educates on the case of promoting the Human Right to Clean Air.

Air pollution standards have helped prevent thousands of deaths in the years since they have been enacted, but many areas of the world still struggle with promoting clean air. Why is air pollution best thought of as a human right? How can we promote this human right across the globe?

Understanding why air pollution is a human right means understanding how air pollution harms lives and deprives people of their rights to health and happiness. Air pollution is responsible for the deaths of millions of people every year, depriving these individuals of their right to life and making their lives harder while they live them.

“Four key pollutants are responsible for most of the health risks caused by air pollution. These pollutants are particulate matter, ozone, sulfur dioxide and nitrogen dioxide. Particulate matter is a mixture of liquid and solid particles, and constitutes the primary threat to people’s health,” says Kevin Wood, Vice President Sales & Marketing at Camfil USA. “According to the World Health Organization, around 38,000 premature deaths in the UK during 2012 were due to exposure to particulate matter. The smaller the particle, the more damage it can do to a person. These particles can penetrate deep into a person’s lungs and be causing a variety of cardiovascular and respiratory diseases, as well as lung cancer.” (1)

High levels of ozone that occur on sunny days can often cause asthma attacks and problems breathing, even in those who are not especially susceptible to air pollution. Nitrogen dioxide is an odorless and colorless gas, which affects people’s respiratory systems, especially those who have pre-existing conditions such as asthma.

Sulfur dioxide is usually released when fuel sources are burned for power or energy, and it causes eye irritation, breathing difficulties, conditions like chronic bronchitis, and increased mortality in people who have heart conditions.

The Case for a Human Right to Clean Air

The case for a human right to clean air is a difficult yet necessary one to make. Considering how air moves around the globe, air pollution is a problem for every citizen of the world. However, many groups of concerned citizens fighting for environmental justice often face difficulty pushing for policy reforms to combat air pollution. Clean air must be recognized as a human right if substantial improvements in air quality around the globe are to occur.

The World Health Organization estimates that around 4.6 million people every year die from causes which can be directly attributed to air pollution. These causes include asthma, bronchitis, heart and lung diseases, respiratory allergies, and emphysema. These deaths are preventable with air pollution control strategies and technologies currently available. What is lacking is the will to aggressively pursue reductions in emissions.

“A report published in the Seattle Journal of Environmental Law argues that when fighting for clean air is recognized as protecting a human right rather than simply voicing a concern, policies will shift towards respecting these fundamental rights,” explains Wood. “Human rights laws can be used to push government and private sector entities into adopting progressive policies and reducing pollution, as failure to do so would result in shaming by the public. Clean air is seen as a human right establishes a relationship between the public and those fighting for clean air.” (2)

Promoting the Human Right to Clean Air

Strategies for promoting the human right to clean air should include both technological and policy-based solutions. The EPA has stressed a need for both emissions standards based on the performance of current emissions-reducing technologies, as well as the continued development of clean technologies.

“The development of more efficient scrubbers, catalytic reduction devices, low or no VOC paints, and Chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) and hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFC)-free cleaning solvents and air-conditioners are all things the clean air act has achieved,” says Wood. “However, advances in these technologies can still go farther, and more efficient scrubbers can still be created.” (3)

One of the best ways to reduce air pollution through technological improvements is the development and widespread adoption of hybrid or electric vehicles. Gas powered vehicles are one of the largest contributors to air pollution, so low or no emission vehicles have the potential to greatly reduce air pollution around the world.

In terms of policies, governments and economic bodies are often hesitant to tackle the issue of air pollution because the costs of addressing the issue are high, even though it has been shown that in the long run tackling the problem of air pollution would save money. This is why the idea of a human right to clean air is so powerful, it can force institutions and government bodies to take the issue of clean air more seriously.

Politicians are responsible for protecting and respecting their constituents and creating a positive framework for the human right to clean air will incentivize them to do so. There will be an obligation to protect clean air and create policies that prevent non-state actors from interfering with the populace’s right to clean air.

It’s important to establish the human right to clean air, and then it to pursue it with a combination of policies and innovation so that people can be protected from the harm of air pollution.

If you want to help promote the human right to clean air, contact Camfil today to learn how you can play your part in providing clean air for your community and the world.

Lynne Laake

Camfil USA Air Filters

T: 888.599.6620,

E: Lynne.Laake@camfil.com

F: Friend  Camfil USA on Facebook

T: Follow Camfil USA on Twitter

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L: Follow our LinkedIn Page

SOURCE Camfil.us

SOURCES

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http://bit.ly/2m4xrDv

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How to Protect Yourself from the Harm of Lead Dust

Clean Air Solution by Camfil USA. Leader in Air Filters for Commercial and Industrial applications.

Camil USA a leader in air filtration educates on How to Protect Yourself From the Harm of Lead Dust through this article.

Though most people envision lead poisoning as resulting from lead paint in old houses, lead poisoning can actually happen in a variety of places. This is due to lead dust, which can occur during the renovation of a house, at a firing range, or in other circumstances. Lead dust is the leading cause of lead poisoning in the most at-risk groups. How can you protect yourself from lead dust?

What Are The Sources of Lead Dust

Lead dust is particles of lead that comes from the breakdown of lead-based objects. Sources of lead dust include lead paint found in houses, lead-based ammunition in shooting ranges, and lead pipes.

“Whenever a lead is disturbed, such as when lead paint rubs together or lead ammunition splinters apart, lead dust is kicked into the air. Lead dust can be tiny, 0.1 to 0.7 µm across. At this size, the lead particles can easily penetrate the lungs and bloodstream,” says Charlie Seyffer, Manager of Marketing & Technical Materials at Camfil. “Even those who have not been directly exposed to the source of the lead can become sick with lead poisoning, as employees of firing ranges can easily carry lead residue home as it sticks to clothes, skin, and work gear.” (1)

Health Effects of Lead Dust Exposure

Lead can accumulate in the body over time and can impact almost every system and organ within a person’s body. The health effects of lead dust exposure are particularly pronounced in children and pregnant women, though lead can be harmful to anyone exposed to it.

Among normal healthy adults, lead exposure can create health conditions such as impaired kidney function, cardiovascular issues like hypertension and increased blood pressure, as well as reproductive issues.

Pregnant women are at special risk from exposure to lead. Lead is typically pushed out of the bones and taints maternal calcium which is used to form the skeletal structure of the fetus. Lead can also cross through the placental barrier damaging the development of the fetus directly.

“Children six years of age and younger are particularly susceptible to lead exposure. The growing bodies of children absorb much more lead than adults do relative to their body size, and their developing nervous systems are more impacted by the effects of lead exposure,” says Seyffer. “Lead exposure in young children can cause developmental problems such as behavioral and cognitive issues, lowered IQ, impaired growth, anemia, and hearing trouble.” (2)

Protecting Yourself From the Harm of Lead Dust

Protecting yourself from the harm of lead dust starts at home and extends to other areas like the workplace and firing ranges. No matter where you are, protecting yourself from lead dust involves taking steps to limit exposure such as ensuring proper sanitization and proper ventilation.

At home, dusty surfaces and walls should be maintained and wipe down with damp cloths to remove potential lead dust. Your family should be sure to wash their hands after touching dusty surfaces, before eating, and before going to bed. If your house has paint that is lead-based, inspect the paint regularly for any peeling and fix the issue promptly. Avoid sanding down peeling paint, as this typically generates lead dust particles.

If you enjoy the sport of hunting and shooting, when you are finished, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and cold water. D-lead wipes are products which are specifically formulated to remove lead off of hands and other surfaces, so you should keep some with you in your range bag. Change your clothes as soon as you get home, as this will minimize the exposure your family has to lead residue.

Lead dust is a stealth killer, and it is incredibly important to understand the harm of lead dust and to take measures to protect yourself from lead dust.

Purchase Camfil HEPA air purifiers or Camil HEPA air filters to protect yourself from the harm of lead dust, contact Camfil immediately. Don’t wait, as any and all lead exposure is unsafe. For firing range design guidance, see Camfil’s publication Indoor Firing Ranges, Design, Ventilation & Air Filtration.

Lynne Laake

Camfil USA Air Filters

T: 888.599.6620,

E: Lynne.Laake@camfil.com

F: Friend  Camfil USA on Facebook

T: Follow Camfil USA on Twitter

Y: Watch Camfil Videos on YouTube

L: Follow our LinkedIn Page

SOURCE Camfil.us

SOURCES

http://bit.ly/2CFF8Y0

http://bit.ly/2CdsXAp

http://bit.ly/2CFFaiA

http://bit.ly/2Cd9UpN

http://mayocl.in/2CGrio6

http://nws.mx/2Cd5PSw

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