LEAD Action News Volume 22 Number 2 June 2024 20 of 73

Water and Lead

You may be aware that water may contain a

number of contaminants and that the

Australian Drinking Water Guidelines* are used

by water authorities when monitoring

contaminants in drinking water.

But did you know that water you use can

become contaminated within your home?

That’s right! The level of acidity and alkalinity (“basic”)

can all play a role.

Background Information of the pH of Water

The range of pH goes from 0-14, and 7 is considered to be neutral. Lower levels of pH are acidic, whereas

higher levels are alkaline/base.

Water is often referred to as being “hard” or “soft”. Soft water is between 6-7 pH. Hard water is between

7-8 pH.

How is water with a low pH problematic when it comes to lead?

A pH below 6.5 may be corrosive (according to NSW EPA’s August 2023 report An investigation into

metals in domestic tank water around the Newmont gold mine in Cadia) which means that if your water

is even slightly acidic, lead (and other metals) could leach into the water.

Lead (and other metals) can leach out of brass taps, ball valves, pumps, lead-soldered pipes or tanks,

and lead-flashing on rainwater collection areas.

Soft water is known to leach lead (and other metals) into the water out of brass taps, ball valves, pumps,

lead-soldered pipes or tanks, and lead-flashing on rainwater collection areas.

What should you do?

Test your water for lead.

Our test Kits are an effective way to determine the level of lead in your drinking water.

You can get your Kit here: https://leadsafeworld.com/product/2-sample-lead-testing-kit/

LEAD Action News Volume 22 Number 2 June 2024 21 of 73

TIP If you’d like to save on your Kits, then please become a member first - for just $10/year, the savings

will quickly mount up. You can join here: https://www.leadsafeworld.com.au/contribute/for-

individuals/

Consider replacing your taps with lead-free stainless steel ones from Vinco.

Stainless steel tapware eliminates the need for costly additional filters and maintenance, making it a

more cost-effective choice over the long term.

Vinco is an industry leader in stainless steel tapware for residential and commercial use. They’re

committed to delivering health and well-being to Australian communities and businesses and ensuring

the safety of your drinking water with their lead-free, brass-free tapware products.

Check out Vinco here: https://vinco.com.au/