US EPA Final Rule: Use of Lead-Free Pipes, Fittings, Fixtures, Solder, and Flux for Drinking Water
On July 29, 2020, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced a final rule to reduce lead in plumbing materials used in public water systems, homes, schools and other facilities. This action marks a significant milestone in implementing the Federal Action Plan to Reduce Childhood Lead Exposure. Along with other actions taken by EPA and our federal, state, and local partners, this final rule will help protect public health—especially children’s health—from the risks associated with lead exposure.
The final rule significantly limits the lead content allowed in plumbing materials (e.g., pipes, fittings, and fixtures) used in new construction and replacement of existing plumbing. Specifically, the new rule reduces the percentage of lead content allowed in these materials from eight percent to 0.25 percent in accordance with the Reduction of Lead in Drinking Water Act. The final rule also requires that manufacturers or importers certify that their products meet the requirements using a consistent verification process. As a result, this new rule will reduce lead in drinking water and assure that states, manufacturers, inspectors and consumers have a common understanding of “Lead Free” plumbing.
For more information visit: visit: https://www.epa.gov/sdwa/use-lead-free-pipes-fittings-fixtures-solder-and-flux-drinking-water
Patti Kay
Patti Kay Wisniewski
Drinking Water Preparedness and Resiliency Coordinator
US EPA Region 3
Drinking Water Section (3WD21)
1650 Arch Street
Phila, PA 19103
215-814-5668
Cell: 215-514-7893
Email: [email protected]
(note the hyphen appears in email only)