by Michael Fitzgibbons
Industrial Hygienist

Plumbing has been an essential part of human civilization dating as far back as 4,000 B.C.E. in the Indus River Valley, allowing access to clean water and enabling sanitation in our homes and cities. Two materials that have been historically used for pipes are lead and copper. While these metals have played important roles in the development of modern plumbing, they also may also introduce significant health risks, especially in older homes.

The Rise and Fall of Lead Pipes
The first known use of lead in plumbing systems dates back to the Ancient Romans around 2,000 B.C.E. Lead was prized for its malleability and resistance to corrosion, making it ideal for piping water. However, as time progressed, the dangers of lead exposure became increasingly clear.

Health Risks of Lead Exposure
Lead is a toxic metal that can cause serious health problems, especially when ingested. It is particularly harmful to children, whose developing bodies absorb lead more easily than adults. Even low levels of lead in drinking water can lead to:

• Developmental delays: Lead exposure can cause cognitive impairments, reduced attention span, problems with reading and difficulties in learning.
• Physical health problems: Lead poisoning can cause growth delays, hearing loss, anemia, kidney damage and high blood pressure.
• Behavioral issues: Studies have linked lead exposures to a range of behavioral health issues including, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD), Conduct Disorder (CD) or aggressiveness and irritability.

In adults, long-term exposure to lead can result in high blood pressure, kidney dysfunction, and reproductive problems. Pregnant women are especially vulnerable, as lead can cross the placenta, potentially harming the fetus.

Lead in Plumbing Today
Despite the known dangers, lead pipes were widely used in the United States until the early 20th century, and lead solder was commonly used to join copper pipes until it was banned in 1986. This means that homes built prior to 1986 may still have lead-based plumbing systems. If lead pipes or fixtures are present in your home, there’s a risk that lead can leach into your drinking water, especially when the water is corrosive or has a pH imbalance.

The Complications with Copper Pipes
Copper piping became a popular replacement for lead in the mid-20th century. Copper is durable, resistant to corrosion and considered a safer alternative to lead. However, copper plumbing comes with its own set of concerns, especially when it comes to copper’s interaction with drinking water.

Health Risks of Copper Exposure
Copper is an essential trace element necessary for good health, however too much copper can be harmful. Excess copper in drinking water can cause:

• Stomach distress: Nausea, vomiting and diarrhea are common symptoms of copper exposure.
• Headaches: Headaches and dizziness
• Liver and kidney damage: Long-term exposure to high levels of copper can cause serious damage to the liver and kidneys.
• Neurological issues: Over time, excess copper can lead to neurological problems, such as difficulty in concentrating or memory issues.

Copper toxicity, while rare in commonly “healthy” people, can occur in people suffering from Wilson’s Disease, a rare genetic disorder that causes copper to build up in the body, potentially damaging effected organs.

Long term exposure to excess levels of copper may lead to symptoms including Anemia, burning sensations, “chills,” convulsions, dementia, difficulty speaking, fever, involuntary movements and Jaundice (Yellowing Skin).

Identifying Lead and Copper Plumbing
If you live in an older home or own a commercial building constructed pre-1990, it’s important to determine if your plumbing system contains lead or copper pipes. Lead pipes are typically dull gray and soft, while copper pipes are reddish-brown and metallic. If you’re unsure, The EI Group, Inc. (EI) offers water service (supply) line testing to inspect the plumbing system in your building/dwelling, including lead solder and lead/copper plumbing system investigations.

Testing Your Water
The best way to determine if your drinking water contains dangerous levels of lead or copper is through water testing. EI offers water testing services for both commercial and residential properties. EI water testing projects include a comprehensive report determining the level of these potential contaminants in water (and additional parameters, if requested) to ensure the drinking water supply in your business and/or home is safe and within acceptable limits as compared to State and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) thresholds.

If the EI water testing protocol reveals elevated levels of lead or copper, there are several steps you can take to ensure your business or home drinking water is safe:

1. Replace Lead Pipes: If your home still has lead pipes, replacing them is the best long-term solution. Although it can be expensive, many municipalities offer financial assistance programs to help homeowners replace lead service lines.
2. Use Water Filters: Certain water filters, like those certified by NSF/ANSI Standard 53, are effective at removing lead from drinking water. Make sure to choose a filter that is appropriate for your needs and replace it regularly.
3. Flush Your Pipes: If lead or copper levels are high, let the water run for a few minutes before using it for drinking or cooking, especially after periods of inactivity. This can help flush out any contaminants that have built up in the pipes.
4. Use Cold Water for Cooking and Drinking: Hot water can leach more lead and copper from plumbing than cold water, so always use cold water for cooking and drinking, and heat it up if necessary.

The Future of Safer Plumbing
As awareness of the risks associated with lead and copper plumbing has grown, the plumbing industry has shifted towards safer alternatives, such as PEX and PVC piping, which do not corrode or leach harmful metals into drinking water. However, for homeowners living in older homes, it’s important to be proactive about testing water quality and updating plumbing systems where necessary.

How We Can Help
Lead and copper plumbing may have served humanity well in the past, but their potential to harm our health makes them outdated choices for modern homes and commercial buildings. If you reside in an older home or your commercial building was constructed pre-1990s, it’s essential to understand the risks associated with these materials and take steps to protect yourself and your family or employees. Whether through testing your water, replacing old pipes, or using water filtration systems, ensuring the safety of your drinking water is a priority that should not be overlooked. The EI Group offers cost-efficient and effective water testing services and water service (supply) line testing allowing building/dwelling owners to be informed and proactive, so they can safeguard their water supply and contribute to a healthier, safer living/working environment. For adiitonal information, related services, and more, contact AMA at 410-684-3327 or info@amaconsulting.com, or visit amatraining.com.