Metals
Lead
A metal most often associated with plumbing rather than the water source.
What is Lead?
Lead is a soft, dense metal that was used historically in water pipes, plumbing solder and some fittings.
Why test for it?
Where lead is present in water it usually enters within the building's own plumbing, which is why testing at the tap gives information that a source-water report cannot.
Where can it come from?
- Lead service pipes in older properties
- Lead-containing solder on copper pipework
- Some older brass fittings and taps
How is it measured?
Determined by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) after appropriate sample preservation. Both first-draw and flushed samples can be analysed, since results differ with standing time.
What does my result mean?
Results are reported in µg/L with the detection limit stated. Because concentrations vary with how long water has been standing in the pipe, the sampling protocol is reported alongside the result.