1. Internship Abstract
Title: Water lead sampling in NJ school
Name: Alana Jimenez
Preceptors: Gary Schwartz, CIH, CSP,CMC, Company Owner
Agency: PHASE Associates LLC
Purpose: To determine the presence/absence of lead in water in a New Jersey College
Significance: Drinking water is one possible source of lead exposure. Some drinking water pipes,
taps, and other plumbing components contain lead. Lead in the plumbing can leach into water
putting people, particularly children at risk. Lead is a toxic metal that is harmful to human health
when ingested or inhaled (EPA,2015). Concern grew rapidly when 30 buildings in the Newark
Public School System had water supplies shut off due to elevated levels of lead and the Flint
Michigan water crisis. In response to growing concern about the presence of lead in drinking
water at schools, Governor Chris Christie announced in May that all schools will be required to
test for lead. Regulations by the New Jersey state Board of Education were passed in July 2016,
stating that all schools in New Jersey must be tested for lead within a year (Associated Press,
2016). Districts that test within a year will be eligible for reimbursement of testing expenses
through the state (Associated Press,2016).
Method/Approach: We conducted initial random sampling in all the dorms in the University.
Sampling followed the EPA's 3TS for Reducing Lead in Drinking water in Schools. First drawn
or initial water samples were collected. This means the outlets being tested were not used for 8 to
18 hours prior to collection. The initial sample is representative of the water that may be
consumed at the beginning of the day or after infrequent use. This is water that has been in
contact with the faucet or drinking water fountain and the section of plumbing (EPA,2015).
Samples are then sent off to a certified drinking water laboratory to analyze samples.
Outcomes: Two buildings (dorms) came back with samples higher than 15ppb of lead. Sixteen
total random samples were taken from the two buildings. Eleven samples showed elevated levels
of lead but below the action level, 15ppb. Four samples showed elevated levels of lead above
15ppb.
Evaluation: When results come back with higher levels of lead than the action level, 15ppb, a
follow up sample is needed. Every single water source in the two buildings will be sampled or
resampled using a flush sample where water is run for 30 seconds before taking the sample. If the
test results from the follow up samples show lead levels above 15ppb again, lead is entering your
drinking water from the buildings interior plumbing (EPA,2015). Additional samples may be
needed to pinpoint the exact sources of lead. Some schools will have to replace piping
completely, however if this proves too costly, many schools are adopting bottle water programs
or other treatment options.