New York School Sees Elevated Lead Levels in 7% of Drinking Water Sources
The Fort Edward Union Free School District in Fort Edward, New York had elevated lead levels in 7% of the drinking water sources tested in November.
The district sent samples of 128 sources of water back in November to the Capital Region Environmental Laboratory and received the results back on Dec. 3, reported the Post Star.
Of the sources tested, nine sources were found to exceed the U.S. EPA and New York State Department of Health limit of 15 ppb, according to a letter from Superintendent of Schools Dan Ward, reported the Post Star.
As a result the outlets that had the elevated levels were removed from service unless needed for hand washing.
The locations that had the elevated levels were: one classroom faucet in, two water fountains in the vicinity, the sink in the girls’ locker room and three sinks and two water sprayers in the home and careers room.
“While we know that this information may cause you some concern, we are taking the necessary steps to address the situation and confirm the safety of water throughout the school,” added Ward in the letter. “There is nothing that we take more seriously than the well-being of our students and staff.”
School officials will work to determine the source of lead and resolve the issue.
Schools in the state are required to test water sources for lead after legislation in 2016. Though districts could obtain a waiver to skip the requirement because of the COVID-19 pandemic, Fort Edward completed the testing on schedule.
The water outlets that were below the limit remain in service.
