As of 2021, a new Washington state law (RCW 28A.210.410 and 43.70.830) requires school drinking water to be tested for lead in all K-12 public schools. It directs the Washington State Department of Health (DOH) to test for lead in drinking water in public schools built, or with all plumbing replaced, before 2016. Testing must be done by June 30, 2026, and every 5 years thereafter. Recently the Washington State Department of Health (DOH) sampled and tested the drinking water of certain fixtures at our school.
Results show three water samples at our school had lead levels above 5 parts per billion (ppb). The report is linked here per DOH guidance. As you review the report, please note the following:
Since 2016, testing was conducted districtwide and steps were taken to replace pipes and faucets. In addition, a districtwide “Flow” program was launched. The Flow Program annually educates students and staff that before drinking from a fountain or faucet, the water should run for 30 seconds. The process of running water before drinking is an added health and safety measure that reduces potential exposure to contaminants. This annual reminder is given to staff and students as an additional measure to obtain access to the safest drinking water possible.
For more information about water quality in our schools, please contact the PSD Maintenance Department at (253) 841-8777. If you are concerned that your child has been exposed to lead for any reason, ask your healthcare provider about having them screened for lead.