Semi-annual study of blood-lead levels in children living near the site
Twice a year, in the spring and fall, the Provincial Institute of Hygiene (PIH) measures the lead levels in the blood of the neighborhood children between 1 and 12 years old from Moretusburg and part of Hertogvelden. In the autumn of 2023, the perimeter of the measurements was expanded.
This research is done on a voluntary basis. Local residents whose children are eligible for this will receive an invitation. The PIH provides individual results to the parents, but publishes the general results in an extensive report. The City of Antwerp and Umicore issue a related press release. The latest reports and press release are accessible below.
Umicore has been investing around 25 million euros per year in environmental measures that have significantly reduced its emissions and dust kicks and lowered emissions from processes even further below the standard. In addition, the green zone creates distance between the site and the neighborhood.
Preventive measures
We strongly encourage neighboring residents to have their children participate in blood tests. This allows close monitoring of the values and may indicate whether, in addition to existing and ongoing projects, extra vigilance is needed against the dispersal and spread of dust. Local residents can also take preventive measures by following the government's advice regarding health and environment.
If your child has been diagnosed with an elevated blood lead level, you can have a free dust analysis done at your home. We will carry out additional measurements.
Questions about a free dust analysis at home?
Prevention worker
You can ask our prevention worker Liesbet De Groot of Gezondheidsmakers vzw for advice and information about the semi-annual tests.