What is Lead in Drinking Water Testing and Why Is It Important?
Lead in drinking water is a serious public health concern that affects businesses across the United States. While lead pipes and plumbing components are no longer used in new construction, older infrastructure can still contribute to lead contamination. That’s why lead testing in drinking water is crucial for identifying risks and ensuring safe, clean water for consumption.
In this article, we’ll explain what lead testing is, how lead enters drinking water, and why regular testing is essential.
What is Lead in Drinking Water Testing?
Lead in drinking water testing is the process of analyzing water samples to determine whether lead is present and at what concentration. Lead is a toxic heavy metal that can enter drinking water through corroded lead pipes, fixtures, and solder—especially in buildings constructed before 1986, when lead plumbing was more commonly used.
Testing typically involves collecting water samples from faucets or taps and sending them to a certified laboratory for analysis. The results are compared to safety standards established by regulatory agencies like the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
According to the EPA, the action level for lead in drinking water is 15 parts per billion (ppb). If lead levels exceed this threshold, corrective actions such as pipe replacement or installation of water filtration systems may be necessary.
How Does Lead Get Into Drinking Water?
Lead is not naturally found in most water sources. Instead, it typically enters drinking water after the water leaves the treatment facility and travels through pipes made of lead or soldered with lead-based materials.
Common sources of lead contamination include:
- Lead service lines (the pipe that connects your home to the main water line)
- Lead-containing plumbing in older buildings
- Brass or chrome-plated faucets and fixtures with lead solder
- Corroded pipes, especially when water has high acidity or low mineral content
Even small amounts of lead can be dangerous, and it can take years for symptoms of lead exposure to appear.
Why Is Lead Testing in Drinking Water Important?
Protects Human Health
Lead exposure is especially harmful to vulnerable populations such as children, infants, and pregnant women. In children, lead can cause:
- Developmental delays
- Learning disabilities
- Behavioral issues
- Lower IQ and attention problems
In adults, prolonged exposure can lead to:
- High blood pressure
- Kidney damage
- Reproductive problems
- Nervous system disorders
Regular testing ensures you’re not unknowingly consuming water that could have long-term health consequences.
Ensures Compliance with Health Standards
Water utilities and building owners are responsible for maintaining safe drinking water. If you’re a business, school, daycare center, or property manager, testing your water helps you stay compliant with local and federal regulations, including those enforced by the EPA and state health departments.
Identifies Aging Infrastructure
Lead testing helps uncover aging plumbing systems that may require replacement or mitigation. Older buildings, especially those built before 1986, are at higher risk of having lead pipes or soldered joints that can contaminate drinking water.
How is Lead Testing Performed?
- Initial Water Sampling: A first-draw sample is taken from a cold-water faucet after the water has not been used for at least 6 hours.
- Lab Analysis: The sample is sent to a state-certified or EPA-approved laboratory.
- Results & Recommendations: Lab reports will show lead concentration in parts per billion (ppb). If levels exceed safety limits, remediation steps will be advised.
Some testing services also provide onsite inspections to help identify the source of lead contamination and recommend mitigation options such as filtration systems, pipe replacements, or corrosion control treatments.
Conclusion
Lead in drinking water testing is a critical step in safeguarding health, identifying hidden plumbing risks, and ensuring compliance with public safety standards. Whether you’re a property manager, school administrator, or business owner, regular testing is an affordable and proactive way to protect your water quality.
If you suspect your property may be at risk, don’t wait. Schedule a professional lead water test today and take control of your water safety.
About Applied Environmental:
We are a Herndon, Virginia based Woman-owned, Small Business providing professional Environmental, Industrial Hygiene, Indoor Air Quality, Hazardous Material Assessments, and Abatement Air Monitoring services to both private sector and government clients since 1986. Applied Environmental provides environmental services throughout the nation. Our local clients are based in Washington, DC, Maryland, Northern Virginia including Arlington, Fairfax, Loudoun and Prince William Counties.
