Carlow Local Authorities are committed to the provision of
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Phone: 059 9170300
Lead in Water
The Council are currently sampling water at locations throughout the County to establish the lead content in drinking water in Carlow. The locations of the known lead service pipes are indicated on the maps available for download below.
The water leaving the Carlow Local Authorities treatment plants does not contain lead. Lead has not been detected in the distribution mains in County Carlow. Lead may dissolve in the water from old lead service connections; which are short lengths of small diameter piping connecting the properties to public water mains.
- If your home was built or renovated since 1970 it is likely that there are no lead pipes in your property.
- Homes constructed pre 1970 may have lead connections.
- Persons who stay or live in homes built before 1970 are advised to flush their pipes as a precaution. This is especially important if there are pregnant women or children under 6 staying or living in the house.
Flushing of Pipes for Houses built pre 1970
- The cold water kitchen tap should be run to fill the sink, particularly first thing in the morning or if the water has been unused in the pipe for a period of 6 hours or more. The tap water can then be used for drinking and cooking.
- Tap water is safe for bathing, showering, brushing teeth, washing dishes and clothes even if homes have lead service pipes.
- Water other than from direct mains supply ( usually kitchen cold water tap ) should never be used for drinking or cooking. Do not drink water from the hot tap or bathroom.
- If you choose to use bottled water to make up infant formula feeds please ensure that the bottle is labelled with a sodium content of less than 20mg per litre.
- Boiling water does not remove lead.
Further Questions about Lead in Water
- Is lead harmful ?
Lead is commonly found in the environment. It comes from a variety of sources including vehicle exhausts and old paint work and may be present in air, food, soil or water. Lead can build up in the body and it can be harmful, especially to young children and pregnant women. It is sensible to avoid excessive exposure from any source. Studies have shown that lead can have a small effect on the mental development of children. It may also he a factor in behavioural problems. It is best therefore to keep lead levels in water as low as possible. Current Drinking Water Regulations limit the lead concentration to 25ug/litre which is 25 parts per billion.
- How does lead get into drinking water ?
There is no lead in water when it leaves the treatment plant. As the Local Authority have not used lead distribution mains, minimal amounts are present in water delivered within the mains pipe network. For a long time, generally up to 1970, lead was used for connection pipes from Council water mains to individual properties. Thus part or all of the service pipe connecting the water main in the street to your kitchen tap may be made of lead. Some types of water, particularly soft water from upland areas, can pick up lead from pipes. In addition, deposits containing lead can build up in pipes and may occasionally be dislodged from service pipes. For these reasons, the amount of lead in drinking water can sometimes be above the standard.
- How many houses have lead connections ?
Approximately 30% of houses in County Carlow were constructed before 1970 as were a considerable number of commercial premises. Not all of these premises would have lead connections as both copper and iron piping were also used for making connections. Also many older premises that have been renovated and may have had plumbing upgraded at the time.
- Where can i obtain further information ?
Please download the fulll frequenty asked question list available below or alternatively call the Water Services Department at 059 9136269 / 262.
Further Information