Lead

Lead (Pb) is a naturally occurring metal found in the environment, including air, soil, food and water. Levels of lead in the environment have decreased significantly over recent decades. In drinking water, the primary source of lead is contact with plumbing materials that contain lead components.

In New Brunswick, elevated levels of naturally occurring lead in groundwater are uncommon. Lead most often enters drinking water through corrosion of plumbing materials, including:

• lead pipes
• lead-based solder
• faucets and fittings containing lead
• older galvanized well liners

Homes built before 1989 are more likely to have lead-related issues due to plumbing standards in place at the time of construction.

Lead levels in drinking water may be influenced by:

• groundwater chemistry
• water temperature
• length of time water remains in plumbing
• type and condition of plumbing materials

Lead has a health-based Maximum Acceptable Concentration (MAC) of 0.005 milligrams per litre (mg/L). Every effort should be made to keep lead levels as low as possible in drinking water.

Laboratory testing is required to determine lead levels in drinking water. Lead has no taste, smell or colour and cannot be detected without testing. Testing recommendations include:

• use of an accredited laboratory
• collection of samples following laboratory instructions

For more information on water testing services, please see: Well water testing. Testing costs vary depending on the laboratory and the number of parameters analyzed.

Health risks from lead occur through ingestion only, including:

• drinking
• cooking
• brushing teeth

Water with lead levels above 0.005 mg/L may still be used safely for:

• bathing
• handwashing
• dishwashing

Children exposed to elevated lead levels may experience:

• damage to the brain and nervous system
• behaviour and learning difficulties
• delays in physical and mental development
• reduced IQ scores

Adults exposed to elevated lead levels may experience:

• increased blood pressure
• kidney problems

When lead levels exceed 0.005 mg/L, additional testing is recommended to identify the source. Sampling water before it enters the home can help determine whether lead is coming from groundwater or plumbing materials.

While waiting for test results, exposure can be reduced by using bottled water or another tested safe source for drinking, cooking and brushing teeth. If plumbing materials are identified as the source, the following actions may reduce exposure:

• replacing lead-containing plumbing materials
• using certified filters or treatment systems
• flushing pipes by running cold water before use
• using cold tap water for drinking, cooking and preparing infant formula

Boiling water does not remove lead and may increase lead concentrations. Flushing is not effective when elevated lead levels are present in water entering the home.

Effective treatment methods for reducing lead include:

• carbon-based filtration
• distillation
• reverse osmosis
• water pitchers certified to NSF standards 53 for lead reduction

Treatment systems should be certified to meet current NSF standards and installed and maintained according to the manufacturer’s instructions. More frequent testing is recommended to confirm treatment effectiveness.

Additional information on treatment options is available through private water treatment companies or the nearest regional Health Protection Branch office.