Wastewater Effects of Removing Lead from Drinking Water

Official Position Statement Approved by WEF

Date of Approval: February 11, 2021

Expiration Date: February 11, 2026

Lead is a heavy metal that can have significant health effects even at very low levels. Health professionals agree that there is no level of lead in water that is safe. During the past 30 to 40 years, significant efforts have been made to reduce lead in drinking water. As understanding of lead effects increased, public health and regulatory requirements have evolved to include requirements to replace lead pipes and water treatment processes that reduce corrosion of lead pipes and premise plumbing. These changes reduce the introduction of lead into drinking water.

READ WEF'S OFFICIAL POSITION ON WASTEWATER EFFECTS OF REMOVING LEAD FROM DRINKING WATER