Lead in Drinking Water
The Ministry of the Environment (MOE) regulates the presence of lead in Municipal drinking water. In 2007, the MOE determined that drinking water samples taken from some consumers' taps in Southern Ontario contained levels of lead above the drinking water quality standards set out in Provincial Regulation. The standard is 0.01 milligrams per litre (equivalent to 10 micrograms per litre).
Consequently, the Ontario Government initiated a water testing program making it mandatory for Municipalities to test water lead levels in 100 homes that may still have lead connections in the water service. The testing program for a sampling of older homes in Thunder Bay is underway.
How does lead get into drinking water?
The raw water from Lake Superior and water supplied from the water distribution system have little or no lead present. However, lead is occasionally found in the water service pipes and the plumbing in homes and can dissolve into the water supply from these sources. Lead can enter tap water through corrosion of plumbing materials like lead solder, fixtures or lead pipes. Chrome or brass plated faucets and fixtures can also leach lead into water.
How do I determine if I have lead pipes in my home?
Lead piping was used in older homes, usually built before 1952. Lead pipe is easy to bend, dullish grey in colour and leaves a silver mark when scratched on another surface.
What should I do if I live in a house with a lead service pipe or plumbing?
When water sits in the lead service pipe for long periods of time it takes up more lead than when running. Water that has stood in the tap for more than six hours should not be used for consumption. Before using water for drinking or cooking, let the water run from the cold water tap for five minutes. To avoid wasting water, take a shower or run a washing machine or dishwasher to clear the pipes instead of just letting it run. Once you have let the water run, fill pitchers, kettles or pots for drinking or for food preparation during the day.
Who can I call to arrange to have my water tested?
If you are concerned about lead levels in your water, contact the City of Thunder Bay, Environment Division at 625-2195 to arrange to have your water tested for lead levels.
Does lead in drinking water pose a health risk?
Lead is a common metal found in the environment in air, soil, household dust, food, certain types of pottery and water. Lead can pose a significant risk to your health if too much enters your body. The greatest risk is to young children and pregnant women. Lead exposure is a world-wide health problem. If you have, or suspect you have a lead water service, alternate sources of drinking water should be considered for young children and pregnant women.
What is the City doing?
The City has programs to help reduce lead levels in our drinking water. The watermain replacement program ensures the piped water infrastructure is renewed. When watermains are replaced, the service connections are also replaced to the property line. The homeowner has the option to make arrangements with the City or a contractor, at that time, to replace the service from the property line into the house at their own expense.
The City also has a cleaning and rehabilitation program to line older watermains with a protective coating. Regular water quality maintenance includes flushing and cleaning of watermains.
Each year, the City of Thunder Bay sends more than 2,400 water samples to an independent laboratory to be monitored for potential contaminants. Plant staff routinely test operational parameters such as colour, pH and alkalinity.
For more information about lead in drinking water, visit the Ministry of the Environment's drinking water website. For more information about Thunder Bay's drinking water, contact the Infrastructure & Operations Department at 625-2195.
