Lead pipes are in the news again and the headlines are…concerning. The United States banned lead from new water service lines in 1986, but it is estimated that it is currently present in over 9 million pipes carrying water to homes and businesses throughout the country. A recent proposal by the EPA would require water utilities to replace all lead-containing lines within 10 years, but scientists and physicians fear it is too late for many vulnerable populations.
The nation watched as residents of Flint, Michigan suffered the consequences of corroded pipes despite frequent reassurances that there was no risk to public health. And though a decade has passed, children and adults in the area who were exposed to lead in their drinking water are still contending with the lingering medical challenges that remain.
The EPA has determined that the maximum contaminent level of lead, a known neurotoxin, in drinking water should be zero. Even at the most minute levels it can be harmful to human health. This is because lead is persistent and can bioaccumulate in the body over time. In children, even minimal exposure has been linked to damage to the central and peripheral nervous system, learning disabilities, shorter stature, impaired hearing, and impaired formation and function of blood cells.
Lead is also dangerous to adults. Adults exposed to lead can suffer from:
- Cardiovascular effects, increased blood pressure and incidence of hypertension
- Decreased kidney function
- Reproductive problems (in both men and women)
As our elected officials on both sides of the aisle debate over how to mitigate risk and overhaul our rapidly aging infrastructure, one thing is certain: lead in the drinking water should be everyone’s concern. Here are ways to limit your own personal risk:
- Determine your exposure: Each year your local community water system must publish an update on drinking water quality via a Consumer Confidence Report (CCR). This report contains information on the origin of the water source, any contaminants found in the water with their associated risk, and a status update on ongoing actions to improve or correct any violations. To find the latest CCR for your area, click here .
- If you are concerned, you can have your water tested: Certain homes, offices and communities may be at greater risk for lead exposure in their water supply. The EPA has created a factsheet that details warning signs of contamination and what to do about them. Your local water agency can provide you with a list of laboratories that can test your home or office for the presence of lead for a nominal fee.
- Run your water: If you are concerned about the presence of lead in your pipes, let your water run or use it for non-consumption purposes (laundry, cleaning, etc) before drinking to limit your exposure.
- Use a filter: Make certain that any filter is tested by an independent third party and is specifically engineered to filter lead. Be sure to replace any filter on or before the expiration date for maximum effectiveness and safety.
Michigan Clear Water offers a variety of bottleless water coolers for any budget that will safeguard your office from the risk of lead exposure. Our state of the art purification systems take the worry out of your water! Our coolers come equipped with many levels of protection including a reverse osmosis membrane that filters lead and other neurotoxins, leaving your office with safe, clean, delicious tasting drinking water. Want peace of mind at a great price? Reach out to Michigan Clear Water for a free water analysis today!