Water at LCC safe for consumption

In an effort to provide for the safety and well-being of students, employees and visitors, Lower Columbia College (LCC) contracted with ALS (Australian Laboratory Systems) to test for potential lead concentration in water sources on campus.

Samples were taken in every building on campus from fixtures most likely to be used for human consumption, such as water fountains, breakroom sinks, ice machines, etc. Samples were drawn in the early morning after a long weekend, allowing for “worst case” lead build-up.

According to results provided by ALS, none of the LCC sample locations fall into the range considered actionable by the EPA (15 or more ppb). Lower Columbia College plans to conduct regular water testing on an ongoing basis to monitor water quality.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends action for the presence of lead in water at levels of 15 parts per billion (ppb) or higher. Lead exists naturally in the earth’s crust, and is present in the air, soil, food, drinking water and other locations in small amounts. Additionally, lead can enter the water supply from plumbing materials/fixtures and water service lines. Older pipes are more likely to contain the element, since leaded material was not prohibited until 1975.

Steps taken over the last 20 years have greatly reduced the presence of lead in tap water. This includes actions taken under the requirements of the 1986 and 1996 amendments to the Safe Drinking Water Act (https://www.epa.gov/sdwa) and the EPA’s Lead and Copper Rule (https://www.epa.gov/dwstandardsregulations/lead-and-copper-rule-long-term-revisions).