The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) predicts that 20% of the lead we’re exposed to may come from contaminated drinking water. With millions of individuals heading back to work and school, this number could rise in the future. On the positive side, some places, such as New Jersey school districts, are now requiring water testing for lead on a more frequent basis, which will help prevent further complications.
For the upcoming 2021-2022 school season, New Jersey is starting a new 3-year water testing schedule. Not only does it require public schools to test their water, it also includes private schools, state-funded childcare facilities, and dozens more. Compared to the original 6-year testing schedule, this is a big improvement and a great step forward.
The most common source of lead exposure is from lead-based paint, but there are a variety of ways for water to be contaminated right under your nose. The main causes are usually from faucets, pipes, and plumbing fixtures that were lead-based in their original design. To make matters worse, the only way to discover lead contamination is by direct testing. Lead will have no differentiation in the smell, taste, or even look of the water itself. There have been plenty of steps and amendments made to reduce the usage of lead material and the chance of lead exposure, but older buildings can still carry these concerns.
To follow up, lead exposure doesn’t always carry visible symptoms in the early stages of exposure either. This means the only key signifier is to have a blood test done to check the levels of lead in your body. If you’ve been exposed for months or years on end, lead exposure can induce side effects or fatal results. For children, lead can have an even faster impact on their health. These side effects include reproduction problems, high blood pressure, memory issues, body aches, and permanent brain damage. The best way to avoid lead exposure is by using bottled water which is certified by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Although, this can end up being too costly for many families.
Would it be wise to spend money now to ensure your safety down the road? We recommend lead testing on a regular basis. Even if you have a private well, that doesn’t mean you’re invincible! Contact us today to discuss testing the water in your establishment. If you’re facing other problems, check out some of the other services we offer.
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