EPA warns about well being dangers of lead-based paints
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), has raised issues concerning the steady use of lead-based paints in Ghana, emphasizing the extreme well being dangers they pose, particularly to kids and pregnant ladies.
The issues have been raised throughout a stakeholder seminar held at Tema, as a part of the EPA’s fiftieth Anniversary Celebration.
The seminar was geared toward creating consciousness of the hazards of lead publicity and advocating for the adoption of safer alternate options in paint manufacturing.
Mr. Lovelace Sarpong, Deputy Director of the Chemical and Quality Unit of the EPA, defined that lead-based paints, as soon as common for his or her vibrant colors and sturdiness, are actually recognised as a significant supply of lead poisoning.
Mr. Sarpong confused the necessity for collective motion to get rid of their use and transition to non-toxic substitutes.
“Lead in paints may seem harmless on walls, but as the paint deteriorates, it releases lead-laden dust and particles into the environment, exposing families to significant health risks. Children who ingest or inhale this dust are at a particularly high risk of cognitive and developmental impairments,” he said.
He additionally detailed the wide-ranging well being results of lead publicity, together with anaemia, kidney injury, and behavioural points, explaining that kids are most weak attributable to their growing nervous methods, whereas pregnant ladies threat passing lead toxins to their unborn kids, resulting in potential developmental delays and issues.
“Lead poisoning does not have immediate symptoms, which makes it a silent threat. Over time, however, it can manifest in irreversible damage to the brain and other organs. Eliminating lead-based paints is a critical step in safeguarding public health,” he emphasised.
The seminar additionally highlighted the supply of safer, non-toxic alternate options to lead-based paints, urging producers and regulators to prioritize their manufacturing and enforcement.
“Countries around the world are phasing out lead-based paints, and Ghana must not be left behind. The cost of safer alternatives is a small price to pay compared to the long-term health and environmental consequences of lead poisoning,” Mr. Sarpong mentioned.
He added that eliminating lead-based paints was a shared accountability, saying “Manufacturers must innovate, regulators must enforce, and consumers must make informed choices. Together, we can create a safer environment for all.”
Meanwhile, the EPA has known as on regulatory our bodies to strengthen enforcement of present laws on lead content material in paints and urged customers to demand safer merchandise.
The company additionally inspired instructional campaigns to tell the general public concerning the risks of lead-based paints and the right way to establish and select lead-free choices.
Participants on the seminar, together with native authorities, and well being practitioners, pledged to assist the EPA’s efforts in selling safer alternate options and making certain compliance with requirements.
Source: GNA
