The recent announcement that new test results indicated Pittsburgh Water and Sewer Authority drinking water is not in exceedance of federal lead regulations should be met with extreme caution (“New Tests Show Lead Levels Meet Mandated Guidelines,” July 19).
We know several facts that cannot be overlooked: 1) There is high variability with one-draw sample testing; 2) over the last year nothing “new” has been done regarding infrastructure, other than partial line replacements that have been proven locally to increase lead exposure in the home; and 3) some PWSA residents (it is estimated 25 percent to 30 percent) have full lead service lines (LSLs) that need to be replaced.
If U.S. utilities with LSLs were to add to their sampling protocol collection of water that had overnight contact with LSLs, between 54 percent and 70 percent of these utilities would exceed the lead action level. This would affect up to 96 million residents who today are being assured their water meets all federal requirements and is safe to consume. Now is not the time to think we are “in the clear.” Rather, we must continue to push for innovative technology and funding, to replace all lead service lines (public and private). Until that becomes a reality, we must ensure resources are available so that pregnant women and children have access to filters and replacement cartridges, and we must develop a robust education campaign.
MICHELLE NACCARATI-CHAPKIS
Executive Director
Women for a Healthy Environment
East Liberty
First Published: July 21, 2017, 4:00 a.m.
