Paul Cochrane

Earlier this year, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released guidance to help reduce the risk of Legionnaires’ disease in short-term rental properties. The guidance outlines steps to help prevent Legionella growth in building water systems and water features commonly found in rental properties., , , , Legionella bacteria can cause Legionnaires’ disease, a severe form of pneumonia that occurs when people inhale small water droplets contaminated with the bacteria., , , , “Tra...

House dust is a part of everyday life, yet few people fully understand what it contains or how it can impact human health. Far from being simple dirt, house dust is a complex mixture of materials originating from both indoor and outdoor environments. These may include soil particles, human skin cells, pet dander, textile fibers, pollen, mold spores, and microscopic organisms such as dust mites and their waste byproducts., , , , For many individuals, exposure to house dust can trigger allergic...

Zimmetry Environmental, Puerto Rico’s leading environmental testing company, is applauding a recent announcement by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) allocating $555,000 to help protect the islands’ waterways from sewage overflows, an important step toward improving water quality and public health., , , , The funding is designed to reduce pollution caused by sanitary sewer overflows (SSOs), which can contaminate rivers, coastal waters, and drinking water sources. These incidents p...

Lead in soil is an often-overlooked environmental hazard affecting families and businesses across both urban and rural communities. Zimmetry Environmental, Puerto Rico’s leading lead testing and consulting firm, is raising awareness about the risks associated with soil contamination and the steps individuals and organizations can take to reduce exposure., , , , While lead is a naturally occurring element, most of the lead found in soil today is the result of decades of human activity. The hist...

As students and educators across Puerto Rico prepare to return to classrooms for the 2026–2027 academic year, attention is once again turning to the importance of safe and healthy indoor environments. Establishing optimal indoor conditions is a key factor in supporting student success, staff well-being, and overall academic performance., , , , Following the summer recess, reopening school facilities requires careful evaluation of building systems and conditions. This includes inspecting HVAC s...

Safe & Sound Week 2026 is being observed from August 10th through the 16th as part of a nationwide effort led by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), PR OSHA, and safety organizations committed to advancing workplace health and safety. The annual campaign highlights the importance of effective safety and health programs that protect workers while strengthening businesses and institutions., , , , Safe & Soun...

Every August, National Wellness Month highlights the importance of self-care, healthy routines, and everyday choices that support overall well-being. The observance encourages individuals and organizations to adopt sustainable habits that benefit both physical and mental health throughout the year., , , , Common wellness practices include improving sleep, increasing physical activity, managing stress, eating nutritious foods, and making time for mental recovery and balance. Together, these hab...

A recent bulletin from the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) warns that millions of workers are exposed to chemicals that may damage hearing, particularly when combined with excessive workplace noise., , , , While hearing loss is commonly associated with loud noise, NIOSH explains that certain chemicals, known as ototoxic chemicals, can also damage the inner ear and auditory nerves. These substances are frequently found in paints, solvents, pesticides, industrial cl...

For many workers across Puerto Rico, the air they breathe on the job can present an invisible occupational health risk. Construction workers, healthcare professionals, manufacturers, emergency responders, and others may encounter dust, fumes, chemicals, biological contaminants, and other airborne hazards as part of their work. Ahead of Respiratory Protection Day on September 1, Zimmetry Environmental is highlighting the importance of effective respiratory protection programs in identifying...

As organizations across Puerto Rico and the Caribbean continue to face increasing environmental and operational challenges, preparedness remains a critical component of long-term resilience. From hurricanes and flooding to public health emergencies and workplace hazards, having the right plans and professional support in place can make a significant difference in how quickly operations recover after a disruptive event., , , , This September marks the 22nd annual National Preparedness Month (NP...