What is the Get the Lead Out of School Drinking Water Act and who does it apply to?
This Act, established in Missouri (RSMo 160.077), ensures schools provide safe drinking water with lead levels below 5 parts per billion (ppb). It applies to public and private schools, as well as state-funded early childhood education programs, but excludes higher education institutions.
Why is lead a concern in drinking water?
Lead is a toxic metal that can cause significant health risks, particularly in children, including developmental delays, behavioral issues, and impaired growth. There is no safe level of lead in drinking water, making prevention and remediation critical.
How do schools identify and test drinking water outlets for lead?
Schools must inventory all water outlets used for drinking or cooking and test each according to EPA guidelines. Initial testing must be completed by August 1, 2024, or before students access the building. Both first draw and flush draw samples are collected after at least 8 hours of stagnation.
What happens if a water outlet exceeds the 5 ppb lead standard?
The outlet must be restricted from use, and remediation—such as replacing pipes, fixtures, or installing filters—must occur. Schools must notify parents and staff within 7 business days and provide suitable drinking water until remediation is complete.
How often do schools need to test for lead in water?
- All outlets must undergo initial testing.
- Outlets with less than 5 ppb must be retested every 5 years.
- Remediated outlets must be tested annually until cleared.
- New or replaced fixtures must be tested before use.
What is required for public communication and transparency?
Schools must:
- Share sampling plans publicly by January 1, 2024.
- Post results and remediation plans on their websites within 2 weeks of receiving test results.
- Notify parents and staff of elevated lead levels through direct communication, not just online postings.
What qualifies as remediation for lead contamination?
Remediation methods include replacing pipes, fixtures, or solder, installing EPA-compliant filters, or providing purified water. Flushing alone is not considered sufficient remediation.
What funding is available for schools to comply with this Act?
Missouri has allocated $27 million in one-time funds for schools to support testing, remediation, and filtration efforts. Schools can also seek additional federal funding where applicable.
What are the guidelines for using filters to reduce lead levels?
Filters must meet NSF/ANSI standards for lead reduction and be properly maintained. Schools should follow the manufacturer’s schedule for replacing filters to ensure effectiveness.
Where can I find more resources or information about lead in drinking water?
Resources are available through the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services, the Environmental Protection Agency, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Schools can also consult local public health organizations for additional support.
