- In 2007, the Government of Ontario introduced more stringent requirements for flushing and testing of drinking water taps in schools, private schools and day nurseries. These requirements are found in Ontario Regulation 243/07 made under the Safe Drinking Water Act of 2002.
- According to Health Canada, research shows that exposure to even small amounts of lead can be harmful to human health, especially for young children, infants and pregnant women.
- The flushing of plumbing has been shown to reduce lead levels in water at the tap.
- All schools are required to have annual sampling and testing for lead between June 15th and August 15th.
- Drinking water samples must be sent to a laboratory licensed by the Ministry of Environment for lead testing.
- The laboratory is required to report any test results that exceed any Ontario standards to the operator of the school, the local Medical Officer of Health and the ministry's Spills Action Centre within 24 hours.
- The school operator is responsible for keeping records on flushing and testing. The records for the two most recent years must be available at the site of the facility for inspection by any member of the public.
The Ontario drinking water quality standard for lead is 10 micrograms per litre. This standard can also be written as 10 µg/L or 0.010 milligrams per litre.
This standard is based on a national guideline set by Health
Canada.
Read the full report 'Flushing and Testing for Lead in Drinking
Water'.
