Water Quality Testing

Per state mandate, we periodically test the drinking water in our schools for lead.

Guidelines for water quality testing

• We follow information and guidance from the state Department of Health for lead testing. Read more about the process at the Washington State Dept. of Health Testing for Lead in Schools Website.
• Testing drinking water for lead is a two-step process that starts with sample testing for lead accumulation in stagnant water. If the sample test shows lead levels above the action level of 15 parts per billion (ppb), those fixtures are immediately shut off and replaced.
• Note: Levels high enough to require remediation or mitigation do not necessarily indicate health effects.

What schools must do after testing

• 0 to 5 parts per billion (ppb): No action is required.
• Greater than 5 ppb and up to 15 ppb: Remediation is required. If possible, stop using all outlets with lead levels above 5 ppb and provide an alternative water source until remediation is completed. Some outlets may be restricted to a specific use only, such as “hand wash only,” until remediation is completed. Examine food safety requirements for food preparation areas before considering this option in school kitchens.
• Greater than 15 ppb: Mitigation is required. Immediately shut off water or block access to any outlet with lead levels greater than 15 ppb. These outlets require mitigation until remediation is completed.