In the pursuit of safeguarding public health, the New York State Department of Health (NYS DOH) has made significant revisions to regulations governing lead testing in school drinking water. These revisions, outlined in Subpart 67-4 (of 10NYCRR), aim to enhance the safety protocols, and ensure that all potable water outlets in all public-school districts and Boards of Cooperative Educational Services (BOCES) meet stringent lead contamination standards.
Advancing Safety with the Evolution of Lead Testing Regulations for School Drinking Water
Initially introduced as an emergency regulation in 2016 and subsequently adopted in 2018, Subpart 67-4 underwent crucial amendments on December 23, 2021, by Governor Hochul, necessitating changes to enhance its efficacy. The revised regulations, effective December 22, 2022, encompass several key updates aimed at bolstering lead testing procedures, response protocols, and public reporting requirements.
Key Revisions for Lead Testing
One of the notable revisions includes lowering the action level for lead contamination from 15 parts per billion (ppb) to 5 ppb, underscoring a more stringent approach to ensuring water safety. Additionally, compliance monitoring frequency has been increased to triennial intervals (from the previous 5-year cycle), while exemptions for “lead-free” buildings have been eliminated, mandating lead testing for all applicable outlets.
Compliance Period for Lead Testing
Schools must complete initial first-draw sampling for Compliance Period 2023-2025 between: January 1, 2023 – December 31, 2025.
New Mandate for Comprehensive Lead Testing
Schools are now mandated to conduct comprehensive lead testing on all potable water outlets, including external outlets such as hose bibs, if they are potentially used for drinking or cooking purposes. Superintendents or their designees play a pivotal role in identifying applicable outlets and devising strategies for managing non-applicable outlets to mitigate risks effectively.
Prompt Lead Remediation Mandate
In the event of lead levels exceeding the action threshold, schools are required to implement remediation measures promptly. These may include permanent removal of affected outlets, replacement with lead-free plumbing materials, systematic flushing programs, installation of point-of-use filters, and educational initiatives to raise awareness among students and staff.
Ensuring Compliance and Public Awareness of Lead Testing
The revised regulations underscore the importance of robust recordkeeping practices, with schools mandated to retain relevant documents for ten years and promptly report lead test results to local health departments and stakeholders. Furthermore, comprehensive public notification requirements ensure transparency and foster community trust by disseminating information about lead testing outcomes and remediation efforts.
Best Practices for Water Safety
To mitigate lead contamination risks proactively, schools are encouraged to adopt best management practices, including regular aerator cleaning, routine flushing procedures, and the use of certified lead-free plumbing materials. Educational initiatives highlighting the importance of running water briefly before consumption further reinforce preventive measures.
Ensure Clean Drinking Water for Schools
The revisions to Subpart 67-4 signify a significant step forward in ensuring safe drinking water for New York’s school communities. By prioritizing proactive testing, robust response protocols, and transparent reporting mechanisms, these regulations uphold the fundamental right to clean and healthy water for all students and staff.
Partner with Lead Testing Drinking Water Experts
Metro Group has been the trusted source for building solutions since 1925. We offer exclusive in-house CDC ELITE and NYS ELAP laboratory services, including comprehensive Lead Testing for School Drinking water. We ensure your compliance every three years with New York State Laws and regulations. Contact us to manage your lead testing compliance and for a free quote on your school’s lead testing.
Source: NYS Department of Health
