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Lead in Drinking Water
Recently, elevated lead levels have been found in tests of the water supply in older homes of some Ontario communities. To address the possibility of lead in our water supply, there are several steps being taken by the Windsor-Essex County Health Unit, local municipalities and the utility companies.
What is lead?
Lead is a toxic heavy metal that occurs in the air, soil, and water. It is found everywhere. It is naturally present in the environment and is also used extensively in modern industry (mining, manufacturing, and burning of fossil fuels). The amount of lead Canadians are exposed to has significantly decreased since the early 1970s, due mainly to the elimination of lead in gasoline, paint, and solder in food cans.
Who is at risk?
Lead exposure is most serious for young children and pregnant women. Children absorb lead more easily than adults and are more susceptible to its harmful effects. Even low level exposure may harm the intellectual development, behaviour, size, and hearing of infants. During pregnancy, especially in the last trimester, lead can cross the placenta and affect the unborn child.
If you are concerned about lead exposure, your doctor can conduct a simple blood test to measure your blood lead level. Your doctor can then recommend corrective action if the amount is over the acceptable level.
Is there lead in my drinking water?
The amount of lead in natural water supplies throughout Canada is very low. In fact, in Windsor-Essex County, the concentration of lead in the water supply is far below the maximum acceptable concentration of 0.010 mg/L and is therefore well within safe drinking water levels. However, lead can enter the water supply from lead solder in plumbing, or lead-containing brass fittings, or faucets in your home. Homes built before 1950 often have leaded distribution lines and service connections. In newer homes, lead may leach from solder for several years. Lead is more likely to be found in soft or very acidic water and in very old or very new homes. The amount of lead in your water also depends on the types and amounts of minerals in the water, how long the water stays in the pipes, the amount of wear in the pipes, the water’s acidity, and its temperature.
Can I have my water tested for lead levels?
Although lead test kits are available from stores for drinking water, they are not generally considered accurate or reliable. A private residence can call their municipal water distribution office and request individual testing. Look on your latest bill payment for your water to find the contact information for your water distribution office.
For more information please see our fact sheet "Safe Water: Lead in Drinking Water"