Drinking Water : EPA Should Strengthen Ongoing Efforts to Ensure That Consumers are Protected from Lead Contamination

Elevated lead levels in the District of Columbia's (Wash., D.C.) tap water in 2003 prompted questions about how well consumers are protected nationwide. The EPA, states, & local water systems share responsibility for providing safe drinking water. Lead typically enters tap water as a result of the corrosion of lead in the water lines or household plumbing. EPA's lead rule establishes testing & treatment requirements. This report discusses: (1) EPA's data on the rule's implementation; (2) what implementation of the rule suggests about the need for changes to the regulatory framework; & (3) the extent to which drinking water at schools & child care facilities is tested for lead. Includes recommendations. Charts, tables & drawings.Stephenson, John B. is the author of 'Drinking Water : EPA Should Strengthen Ongoing Efforts to Ensure That Consumers are Protected from Lead Contamination', published 2006 under ISBN 9781422305928 and ISBN 1422305929.