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Lead in Drinking Water

A home’s water supply should be lead-free, but sometimes lead may be found in a home’s plumbing in pipes, solder, faucets, and fixtures. Drinking water that contains lead can cause health problems, especially for pregnant women and young children.

Lead in drinking water can increase a person’s total lead exposure. Infants who drink formula and concentrated juices prepared with lead-contaminated tap water may be at a higher risk of lead exposure because of the large volume of water they drink compared to their body size. 

Bathing and showering in water with lead is safe because human skin does not absorb lead in water. However, careful attention should be taken so that infants and children do not drink the water while bathing.

A blood lead test is the best way to determine if there is lead from drinking water in the body. Most children and adults who are exposed have no symptoms. A healthcare provider can help address possible lead exposure and arrange for blood lead testing. More information on the testing is available at our For Parents webpage.

To learn more about the sources of lead in drinking water and how to reduce the chances of getting lead in your body, visit the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency’s website page on lead in drinking water.

Lead Testing in Childcare Facilities Program

The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) is currently offering free testing for lead in water for licensed childcare providers in Ohio. The program is being offered to providers in Cuyahoga, Franklin, Hamilton, and Lucas counties. Childcare providers and facilities can register for the testing at the Ohio Lead Testing in Child Care Programs webpage or by contacting TetraTech at (513) 333-3694 or OhioLeadTesting@tetratech.com.

Resources

ODH

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

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