Lead in Drinking Water

The government's Drinking Water Inspectorate says...

"Some drinking water can contain lead in undesirable amounts....

"Lead is commonly found in the environment. It comes from a variety of sources including vehicle exhausts and old paint work and may be present in air, food, soil or water.

Lead can build up in the body and it can be harmful. It is sensible to avoid excessive exposure from any source...

"It is best therefore to keep lead levels in water as low as possible.

"For a long time, generally up to 1970, lead was used for some water pipes. Part or all of the service pipe connecting the water main in the street to your kitchen tap may be made of lead.

"If your home was built before 1970 it may have lead pipes. If you are unsure, you can make a simple check."

To find out more, read the Drinking Water Inspectorate's information leaflet "Lead in Drinking Water" - click here.

South West Water's leaflet "Lead in Drinking Water" also contains useful information - click here.