CT Residents to Hear from Water Systems on Service Line Materials

The Connecticut Department of Public Health (DPH) announced that residents using public water systems may receive notifications about the material of service lines connecting to their homes. Notifications will be sent if lines contain lead, galvanized materials that need replacement, or are of unknown materials. This initiative aligns with new EPA regulations aimed at reducing lead exposure, which require water companies to inform affected residents annually until lines are replaced. Notifications will include health risks, steps to minimize exposure, and replacement plans. Public water systems can apply for federal assistance to help fund these projects. For more information, residents can contact their water providers or visit leadfreect.org.

Replacing lead service lines is crucial for public health because lead exposure through drinking water can have severe and lasting health impacts, especially in vulnerable populations like children, pregnant women, and those with compromised health. Lead can leach from older pipes into drinking water, even at low levels, and there is no safe level of lead exposure. In children, lead exposure is linked to developmental delays, behavioral issues, and lowered IQ. For pregnant women, it can increase the risk of miscarriage, premature birth, and developmental issues for the fetus. Long-term exposure in adults can lead to cardiovascular issues, kidney damage, and reduced cognitive function. Replacing these lines is a proactive measure to eliminate a primary source of lead in drinking water, safeguard public health, and ensure communities have access to safe, clean drinking water.

You can read the full news release here.