Frame of Reference
Lead pipes, faucets, and plumbing fixtures are a few of the most common sources of lead in drinking water. Other sources include lab faucets, hoses, spigots, hand washing sinks, etc. Pipe fittings made prior to the year 1986 may contain lead, so it is advised you inspect these old pipes. Lead comes by pipes, carrying it from the water source to the home.
Lead Poisoning Prevention
Over the past two decades, measures have been taken to reduce lead exposure in tap water. For instance, the U.S Environmental Protection Agency’s Lead and Copper Rule, as well as the Safe Drinking Water Act. Lead exposure occurs when a chemical reaction takes place in plumbing materials holding lead. This is called corrosion, which is the wearing away of metal from pipes. Corrosion can become more severe when water has high acidity or low mineral content. Factors such as the amount of water in the pipes, acidity, temperature, and the amount of wear in the pipes all contribute to how much lead enters the water.
How to know if your water is contaminated
Lead is disguised in your water. You cannot smell, see, or taste it which can be alarming. It is advised you start by asking your water provider if you have a lead service line providing your home water. If yes, ask if there are any programs to remove the lead service line. You must identify the potential sources of lead before anything else. After you are informed on this information, you should have your water tested. Upon a request, you can get somebody to have it tested.
Risks of Lead Exposure
For over a century, the dangers of consuming lead have been spread across the world. While ingesting small quantities damages young brains and may risk heart problems, immense lead exposure has been found to cause death. Anemia, weakness, kidney, and brain damage are only a few of those dangers from lead exposure. Despite these risks, members of cities are still drinking from taps fed by lead pipes. Children and pregnant women are at high risk. In children, lead in the blood can lead to lower IQ, slowed growth, anemia, hearing problems, and more. Pregnant women can face reducing the growth of their fetus, premature birth, and can transfer the lead through breast milk. This is why it is extremely important to learn about the water coming into your home.
Learn about your water quality here
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