Exposure to lead can have a wide range of effects on a child's development and behavior. Even low levels of lead in children can result in behavior and learning problems, lower IQ and hyperactivity, slowed growth, hearing problems, and anemia.
Blood Lead Level Surveillance Data
Lead in Drinking Water: Testing in School and Childcare Facilities
Does the water your child drinks at school or daycare contain lead?
Children under age 7 are most susceptible to the harmful health effects of lead and they often spend most of their day at school or daycare. Public water is tested routinely by the public utility, but many schools and licensed childcare facilities may have plumbing components (such as faucets) that contain lead.
The State Drinking Water Division at the Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy is partnering with local health departments across the state to test for lead in drinking water at schools and licensed childcare facilities. This testing is free of charge and can ensure that children are not unknowingly exposed to lead in their drinking water. Collecting samples is simple and can be done by anyone – parents, school staff, students, or any individual interested in protecting children from lead exposure. Testing every school and licensed daycare across the state is essential to help protect the next generation of Nebraskans.
View Testing Results for Schools and Childcare Facilities
Interpreting Results
While there are no safe levels of lead in drinking water, the EPA has established an Action Level of 15 ppm (parts per million). No one should be drinking water that has tested at this level or higher. It is recommended that faucets with lead levels at 10 ppm or above be replaced or not used for drinking or food prep.
School and Childcare Facility Participation
If your child's school or childcare facility does not have the results listed above, that may mean that they have not tested for lead in their drinking water. Encourage your child's school or childcare facility to contact their local health department to participate in lead testing today!
More Information
More information about lead in drinking water and reducing lead in drinking water in schools and childcare facilities can be found on the EPA's websites.