What is Lead?
Lead is a metal that is found in soil, rocks, air and water. In the past, it was widely used to make water pipes until it was discovered to be associated with significant health problems. Many older houses (i.e. 1970s and older) may still have lead pipes or fittings containing lead and it is likely in these cases that the drinking water may be above safe levels. In the Drinking Water Regulations, it is defined as a Chemical parameter.
What is a Lead exceedance?
A drinking water exceedance is a result from a drinking water sample which is above the acceptable limit. The limit for lead in drinking water is 10µg/l, therefore any result greater than this is seen as a lead exceedance.
What causes a Lead exceedance?
The main cause of lead in drinking water is due to lead ‘leaching’ from lead pipes and plumbing fittings into the water.