Water tests in schools announced following lead results
After state test results showed some drinking water sources in Wareham schools were contaminated with lead and copper, Business Manager Michael MacMillan told the School Committee steps have been taken to keep students and staff safe.
On Wednesday, MacMillan said that 16 drinking water sources with high lead levels have been disconnected and warning signs telling students and staff not to drink from 151 sources, mostly classroom sinks, have been installed.
“I know many parents are concerned reading these results,” said MacMillan. “What we’re doing is following the advice from the department of health, which is to identify and remove sources of lead exposure.”
MacMillan said those were temporary measures and there are plans in place to replace the contaminated water fountains. He noted that’s an expensive proposition as it costs an estimated $3,000 to $4,000 to install one fountain.
Additionally, MacMillan said the school will conduct regular tests of drinking water sources going forward.
“We are undertaking periodic testing of all sites regularly used for drinking water, even those sites that are clear and confirmed, we will keep testing,” he said.