The leaching of lead in domestic water distribution systems
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Date
1991
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Journal ISSN
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Publisher
University of New Brunswick
Abstract
The purpose of this report is to investigate the problem of lead
leaching from soldered joints and to determine the potential for occurrence in
the Fredericton area. It will involve the following: an examination of the
circumstances and conditions influencing the dissolution of lead into drinking
waters, an evaluation of current legislation and regulations, an analysis of
samples taken from selected test areas in Fredericton, and recommendations to
reduce lead contamination in the water supply in Fredericton.
Aggressiveness, temperature and stagnation period of the water all
contribute to the amount and the rate at which lead is dissolved in drinking
water. The water supplied to the test areas in Fredericton is moderately
aggressive and initially contains no lead. Any lead found in the water is due to
the lead-based solder used to connect copper pipes and any fixtures with lead
content. It has been proven in previous studies that lead contamination can be
significantly reduced by flushing out the pipes thoroughly before drinking or
cooking with the water and by never using hot water for cooking.