Lead in water

Lead is a toxic substance harmful to man. Although nowadays it is largely prohibited, lead piping may still exist in older properties ...

Where do you find lead ?

Lead is a metal widely used in industry. It is found naturally in the environment. You also find it in cigarette smoke and in the materials used to make sure your house is waterproof (roofs...).

In most countries it is now illegal to use it in petrol ("leadfree"), in paint and in the public water mains.

However, lead piping can still be found in some older properties as well as in some service pipes (the pipe leading from the water mains to the property).

What are the effects of lead on your health ?

Lead is a toxic substance harmful to man.

Absorbing a large quantity of it (either from inhaling or ingesting it) can lead to neurological problems (lead poisoning). Children, babies and pregnant women are most at risk.

Is water a major factor when it comes to lead exposure ?

Water is not the major factor when it comes to lead exposure.

Cases of lead poisoning are mainly linked to the presence in some older properties of white leaded paint, a white pigment used in paint until it was banned.

Children can ingest the lead from this when they suck on their fingers.

Could there be lead in your tap water ?

The standard on lead levels is largely adhered to when the water leaves the water treatment plant and while it is in the mains.However, if you live in an old property, the plumbing in your house may contain lead piping.

When water comes into contact with the pipes, the drinking water can then become contaminated by the lead. Take advantage of any renovation work to replace any lead piping with plastic or copper pipes.

What to do if the plumbing in your house still has lead piping ?

When using water:

  • Do not drink water which has been in the pipes for too long.First thing in the morning, when returning from a weekend away or from a holiday, first use the bathroom (toilet, shower) or water the plants ;

  • Use cold water when cooking. Hot water dissolves more lead more quickly as well as encouraging the growth of bacteria.