Recirculation Pipe Loop Testing Helps Develop Strategies for Minimizing Distribution System Lead, Copper Levels

摘要

The lead and copper rule (LCR) has received renewed interest by regulators, public health officials and the news media. In 2004 there were over 50 articles in the Washington Post concerning lead in the District of Columbia's water system and articles have appeared in news media across the nation regarding local lead and copper levels in drinking water. In 2004 EPA reviewed the Lead and Copper Rule to determine if there was a national problem regarding elevated levels. The review found that since 2000, 96% of the systems serving more than 3,000 people were in compliance. While the EPA evaluation did not reveal a national problem, EPA identified opportunities to improve and clarify specific areas of the rule. One of the improvements which will impact the operation of treatment systems is the EPA's proposal to require that a public water system notify the state of treatment changes 60 days prior to the change rather than 60 days after a change.