Most Australian homeowners can rest easy knowing that their water supply is safe. However, for some, certain plumbing products are ticking time bombs that contain lead. These products are approved for use and are usually safe but there are a number of scenarios where lead can find its way into the water supply without homeowners having any way of knowing that their plumbing has been compromised.
In some parts of the world, lead in drinking water is a serious problem. Products that are used in drinking water systems in South Australia may contain lead but only become a problem when the lead begins to dissolve. This is more likely to happen with brass plumbing fittings which are vulnerable to sitting water.
Brass Plumbing Fittings
Brass plumbing fittings that contain lead are often used in plumbing for drinking water systems. Water that is in constant contact with these types of brass fittings can result in lead finding its way into your drinking water. The lead will dissolve due to the sitting water, effectively corrupting the supply and posing a threat to human health.
If you are concerned about lead exposure from brass plumbing fittings you can bring in a plumber to inspect your drinking water supply. Alternatively, visit your family doctor and ask about blood tests to determine if you have been exposed to lead.
Copper Pipe Solder
Old copper piping presents a risk of lead exposure if lead based solder was used in production of the fitting. Licensed plumbers in Australia no longer use lead-based solder in accordance with a law banning the product and deeming it unsafe. An experienced plumber will be able to establish whether older copper pipes in your home pose a risk to health.
Homeowners can have water tested by labs approved by the South Australian government. If you are not happy with the determination of a plumber and wish to seek additional assurances you can contact the relevant facility direction for instructions on how to have your water quality checked.
Rainwater Systems
Homeowners who collect rainwater run a greater risk of becoming exposed to lead in drinking water. The acidic nature of rainwater makes it corrosive to plumbing fittings that contain metals – including lead. It is recommended that you do not use fittings that contain lead; however, rainwater can also come into contact with lead particles in the environment and other areas of your property.
It is recommended that you do not use rainwater as a supply for drinking. There is no way of insuring that lead does not enter the water supply. In some cases, rainwater supplies can contain lead at levels that are considered at high risk of causing health problems in humans and animals.
Lead Exposure Safety Guide
The South Australia government has produced an extensive guide to help citizens protect their families from high levels of lead exposure. You will find useful information on how lead enters the body, health concerns, “no safe levels,” and lead in the environment. To safeguard the health of your family, take the time to learn how to reduce the chances of being exposed to toxic lead in your own home and the surrounding environment.
Renovations
If your home requires renovations to replace plumbing, fixtures or structures that contain lead that could enter the water supply you will need professional building inspection to help ensure the work makes your home and drinking water safe.
Houspect in South Australia has extensive experience in providing staged instructions for homeowners who require detailed reports that are easy to interpret. Call our offices today for more information on a building inspections carried out by qualified builders.
