YOU MAY HAVE HIGH LEAD LEVELS IN YOUR DRINKING WATER

As part of the EPA’s Safe Drinking Water Act, all communities are required to monitor numerous parameters in drinking water, including lead. Lead is not found naturally in our drinking water. Lead enters the drinking water by corrosive action after being in extended contact with the service pipes in homes with lead services or homes having copper pipes soldered with lead solder, and are prime locations where lead concentration could be an issue. (Note: Lead solder was banned in 1986 and lead services haven’t been used for decades). Marlborough’s water is treated for corrosion to reduce its ability to absorb lead.

In order for the City to monitor for lead, we identified 30 locations where lead could potentially be a concern and solicited the owners help to obtain a sample. The owner was directed to take the “First Flush” sample in the morning. That is the first draw of water in the morning after it has had 6-8 contact hours with the lead service or solder. Of the 30 samples, the city had to have 90% under the action level of 15 parts per billion in order to remain in compliance. We failed this 90% by two samples. The following information is intended to educate you on the health impacts of lead and to provide you with steps you can take to reduce your exposure. Click here on the following link to learn more on lead in drinking water and steps you can take to reduce your exposure to lead.