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All Graphs of Drinking Water Test
Results for Lead 1992-2009
Massachusetts Water Resources Authority
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Below are graphs that show how lead levels have dropped over time, broken down by range of results. As you scan the graphs, you can see the number of positive results from stagnant samples from high risk homes drops since testing began in 1992.
The most recent sampling demonstrates that over ¼ of these samples had no detectable lead. More than 2/3 of these samples had levels less than 5 parts per billion. Almost ¾ had levels of 5 ppb or less, and 88% of the samples were under 10 ppb. Only about 7.5 % were over 15 ppb. Compare this to the first sampling in 1992 where over 40% of the samples were over 15 ppb, with nearly 20% over 50 ppb.
LEAD TEST RESULTS - GRAPHS
Below are MWRA's lead testing results in first-flush samples, worst-case households.
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In addition to looking at system wide results, MWRA staff look closely at the results at each home sampled. Seeing how results change at a particular home over time can yield additional information about what contributes to lead leaching. For example, MWRA staff noticed one home which had had very low levels for several years suddenly had high results. When we followed up with the homeowner, we discovered that the recent high results were from a newly renovated bathroom with a new brass faucet. Unfortunately, it is still possible to purchase brass faucets which can leach excessive amounts of lead.
CONTACT US
If you have questions or would like more information about lead in drinking water, please call our Water Quality Hotline: 617-242-5323, or email Joshua Das, Project Manager, Public Health.
Rev. February 1, 2010 5:15 PM