Water Test Results Show Many Illinois Residents Could be Exposed to Elevated Lead Levels

In May, the Chicago Tribune published an article about the safety of tap water in people’s homes across Illinois due to concerns over elevated levels of lead. According the article, an analysis of state data showed that some 700,000 residents served by approximately 170 public water systems could be at some level of risk.

The exposure risk is due to elevated lead levels found in the water from household taps that exceeded federal standards. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), “Lead is rarely found in source water, but enters tap water through corrosion of plumbing materials. Homes built before 1986 are more likely to have lead pipes, fixtures and solder. The most common problem is with brass or chrome-plated brass faucets and fixtures which can leach significant amounts of lead into the water, especially hot water.”

The amount of lead in drinking water can also depend on the types and amounts of minerals in the water, how long the water stays in the pipes, the amount of wear in the pipes, the water’s acidity and its temperature.

“Lead is a toxic heavy metal that even at low levels of exposure may cause a range of health effects including behavioral problems and learning disabilities, high blood pressure, kidney problems and other issues,” said Joe Frasca, Senior Vice President of Marketing at EMSL Analytical, Inc. “Although everyone is at risk of exposure to lead, children six years old and under are at most risk because this is when their brains are rapidly developing.”

People concerned about the possible presence of lead or other contaminants in their water can turn to EMSL Analytical for comprehensive water testing. They offer testing for heavy metals, microbial contaminants and other pollutants. They also offer a consumer-friendly Drinking Water Test Kit that can we be accessed at www.EMSLTestKits.com. A video about lead in drinking water sponsored by EMSL Analytical can be seen at: http://youtu.be/2kvtAcpw1MY.

To learn more about lead testing or other environmental, health and safety services, please visit www.EMSL.com, call (800) 220-3675 or email  info@EMSL.com .

About EMSL Analytical, Inc.

EMSL Analytical is a nationally recognized and locally focused provider of environmental, indoor air quality and materials testing services and products to professionals and the general public. The company has an extensive list of accreditations from leading organizations as well as state and federal regulating bodies. 

Contact Information

Joseph Frasca

Senior Vice President of Marketing

EMSL Analytical, Inc.

(1) 856-303-2503

Contact via E-mail