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Date: June 5, 2008 Attention: ASCIP Members Subject: Lead Hazards in Drinking Water Download a printer-friendly version. In view of the recent media attention given to the incidents of Lead contamination being found in some drinking water at several locations within Los Angeles schools, government officials and safety groups are calling for safer drinking water throughout all schools. Lead is a toxic substance that, if ingested or inhaled, may result in a wide range of adverse health effects was commonly used in older plumbing materials and water service lines. Both children and adults can suffer health effects from Lead exposure. The most common of these health effects in small children are learning difficulties, behavioral problems and hearing difficulties. In January of 1989, the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued the document "Lead In School Drinking Water" which provided several protocols for daily use of water systems and the testing of lead in school water sources to ensure that any Lead which may be present is below those levels which are considered to be unhealthy. The EPA recommends that all schools flush drinking water outlets after weekends and vacations/breaks for 30 seconds or until the water feels cool to the touch. This flushing of the system reduces the amount of time that water remains in plumbing systems thereby reducing the amount of time that lead may leech from lead-based plumbing systems into the water. To sample water for Lead at school sites, the EPA recommends conducting a "morning first-draw" which requires flushing of the school site plumbing system. A copy of this procedure as outlined by ASCIP's Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH) is attached for your review. Members who are concerned that their drinking water may contain lead are encouraged to contact ASCIP to discuss testing methodologies. ASCIP staff is available to assist in addressing potential Lead exposure concerns as they may arise. Related Risk Alerts: Potential Lead Hazards in Synthetic Turf |