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Heavy Water in School

Wednesday, 12 September 2018 12:42

Seventeen schools built before 1990 in Yukon have been tested for levels of lead in their drinking water fixtures, such as fountains and sinks.

Yukon schools were tested this past summer and the findings are heavy.

That is because elevated levels lead has been found in over 150 water fixtures used for drinking.

The National Plumbing Code of Canada considered lead an acceptable material in water pipes until 1975, and in solder (sod-er), an alloy used to join metal, until 1986.  

Though it poses no immediate risk since we are regularly exposed to small amounts, elevated levels of lead over time can harm your brain, nervous system or kidneys.

Most schools built before 1990 had at least one fountain that was higher than health canada's standards, but some, such as Robert Service School in Dawson City and the Eliza Van Bibber School in Pelly Crossing had dozens of substandard water fixtures. 

Immediate action included shutting off high risk water fixtures and providing an alternative form of drinking water.

More information can be found www.education.gov.yk.ca/water-testing.html 

 

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