Inorganic High Risk
Lead
Developmental delays in children, kidney problems, high blood pressure in adults
Sources: Corrosion of plumbing, Lead pipes, Household fixtures
Regulatory Limit
Zero EPA Limit (15 μg/L)
*Levels above the EPA limit are considered unsafe.
MCL Value
15 μg/L
Goal (MCLG)
0 μg/L
Violating Systems
5 nationwide
Affected Population
1.5M estimated
Avg Detected Level
8.927 μg/L in affected systems
Health Risk Assessment
Exposure to Lead in drinking water is regulated because of its potential to cause developmental delays in children, kidney problems, high blood pressure in adults. The EPA has set the Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) at 15 μg/L to protect public health.
Note: Long-term exposure above the MCL can significantly increase health risks. This contaminant is considered high priority due to its severe potential health impacts.
Detailed Health Effects
Developmental delays in children, kidney problems, high blood pressure in adults
Common Sources
1
Corrosion of plumbing 2
Lead pipes 3
Household fixtures 4
Industrial discharge National Overview
Total Tests
62
Violations Found
5
Violation Rate
8.1%
Top States by Violations
Most Affected Systems
73
City of Anaheim Public Utilities
B CA3010037 Anaheim, CA
353,085 served
81
Las Vegas Valley Water District
B NV0032010 Las Vegas, NV
651,319 served
65
United Water Boise (SUEZ)
C ID0010100 Boise, ID
235,684 served
85
Des Moines Suburban Water
B IA1977013 Des Moines, IA
100,000 served
65
Salt Lake City Department of Public Utilities
C UT1800020 Salt Lake City, UT
200,133 served
Treatment Methods
Corrosion control
Pipe replacement
Filtration
Is this in your water?
Find out if your local water system has detected Lead.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Lead and why is it in drinking water?
Lead is a inorganic contaminant. Common sources include: Corrosion of plumbing, Lead pipes, Household fixtures, Industrial discharge.
What are the health effects of Lead in drinking water?
Developmental delays in children, kidney problems, high blood pressure in adults
What is the EPA limit for Lead?
The EPA Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) for Lead is 15 μg/L.
How can I remove Lead from my water?
Effective treatment methods for removing Lead include: Corrosion control, Pipe replacement, Filtration.
How do I test my water for Lead?
You can check your water system's annual Consumer Confidence Report for Lead levels, or use a certified home water testing kit. WaterQ provides the latest EPA test data for all public water systems.