The Centers for Disease Control estimates that one in six American children have blood lead levels greater than 10 ug/dl. The lead found in drinking water is tasteless, odorless, and colorless, which is why many are unaware of the problem. Lead enters the water at the water source or more commonly from the pipes it passes through. Lead poisoning can also occur from water coolers and drinking fountains that contain lead lined tanks or lead solder joints. Even in homes and offices with unleaded pipes and solder, common brass faucets may contain between 3 and 10% lead.

Water pipes can be made of lead or contain lead solder. Homes built before 1920 frequently have lead pipes. However, homes built as recently as 1986 may contain lead pipes. Lead pipes have also been used to connect homes to the main water supply line. Lead solder can contribute as much lead as a lead pipe. Solder containing 50 percent lead was used until 1986. In 1986 federal law banned the use of lead pipes and plumbing solder with high lead content. As pipes age they build up a thin layer of mineral deposits that help to prevent lead from being released.

For more details on the problem of lead in drinking water and what you can do about it, contact your local or state department of health or environment, or call the Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 1-800-426-4791.

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