1. Protecting the Public from Lead in Drinking Water
An initiative of
<Utility Name>
PROJECT BRIEFING
OFFICIAL/BOARD NAME
DATE

2. Background
Lead is a common element that has been used in the manufacture of numerous products
For centuries, lead was used in plumbing because of its pliability and resistance to leaks
It has also been found to be highly toxic and associated with a variety of adverse health effects
Infants, children and pregnant women are especially at risk

3. Background
Until the 1950s, lead was commonly used in water service laterals, which connect utility pipelines to individual properties
It was also used in the manufacture of plumbing fixtures, as well as solder, into the 1980s
Although lead in drinking water is a prominent issue, most exposure occurs from lead-based paint and tainted soil.

4. Lead Regulations
Lead in drinking water is regulated by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) under the Safe Drinking Water Act
The Lead and Copper Rule is based upon a “treatment technique” requirement in which a lead “action level” is a trigger for mitigation
If more than 10% of tap water samples analyzed under the monitoring program exceed 15 parts per billion, water systems must take additional steps
Under the Lead and Copper Rule, monitoring takes place at worst-case sampling locations
The Lead and Copper Rule is currently being revised

5. Preventative Measures
To prevent lead from dissolving into drinking water, <UTILITY NAME> treats the water supply to control corrosion
We also collect and analyze samples to ensure compliance with state and federal regulations
<UTILITY NAME> has never <if applicable> exceeded the Lead and Copper Rule action level
<if applicable> We have a systematic program to locate and remove any utility-owned lead-based service laterals

6. Customer Outreach
Transparency on this issue is of paramount importance. To ensure that customers and other stakeholders have access to information about lead in drinking water, <Utility Name> has enacted a robust community outreach program that includes:
<List outreach tactics employed: e.g. explanation of lead inventory status, bill inserts, newsletters, CCR, etc.>

7. Customer Support
One of the most challenging aspects of protecting tap water consumers is that many sources of lead are not within the utility’s control
Builder-installed lead service lines
Interior plumbing lead solder or fittings
Faucets with lead
To support the removal of privately owned lead service lines, <Utility Name> has <if applicable> a program to provide financial assistance
<provide key points (e.g. zero interest financing, etc.) if applicable>

8. Conclusion
Although <Utility Name> has made significant inroads in protecting drinking water consumers from lead, the best solution is the removal of all lead-based service lines and plumbing components
<Utility Name> will continue to manage water chemistry to limit corrosion and encourage efforts to eliminate potential sources of lead in drinking water