State health agency helps schools, childcare centers detect lead in water

The Arizona Department of Health Services is offering free lead screening of drinking water fixtures and faucets for Arizona schools and childcare facilities.

It is part of a program established in 2016 and funded by the Environmental Protection Agency.

ADHS received about $1.4 million to assist Arizona schools in detecting lead in drinking water to ensure that schools are aware of potential plumbing problems, ADHS officials said in a release.

“If lead is found in drinking water, ADHS will work with the school to find the best possible solutions to lower lead levels,” the release stated. 

The EPA has determined lead pipe and soldering may be a significant contributor to lead in drinking water nationally.

Any Arizona public school or state-regulated childcare facility is eligible to enroll and participate in this program.

ADHS encourages all interested, eligible schools and childcare facilities to enroll by filling out the survey found here: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/VXZTV7H