Lead and Copper in Water
Lead and copper usually enter the water supply from plumbing or from erosion of natural rock deposits. In infants and children, lead can cause delays in physical or mental development. Children could show slight deficits in attention span and learning abilities. In adults, lead may cause kidney problems as well as high blood pressure. Short term copper exposure can cause gastrointestinal distress. Long term exposure can cause liver or kidney damage. Lead and copper are EPA regulated parameters with an action limit of 0.015 mg/L for Lead and 1.3 mg/L for Copper in drinking water.
Public Water Supplies for Compliance - $25 plus shipping for each sample or draw
Public Water Supplies for Compliance - $25 plus shipping for each sample or draw
Samples are accepted ONLY from Public Water Suppliers, IDEM, or other State Agencies.
Questions: Contact Quincy Bell, qbell@health.in.gov or 317-921-5559
Sampling bottles must be 1 L plastic bottles to meet the requirements for the Lead and Copper Rule.
Public Water Utilities must purchase kits using:
There are two draw types for water sampling:
First Draw: Water that has stood motionless for at least 6 hours. Do not flush the water before taking sample. Do not sample after weekends, holidays, or extended periods of stagnation. First draw samples may be taken in the morning or at the end of the day, but the water in the residence must not be used during the prior 6-hour period.
Second Draw: Does not require stagnation. Flush the water 4-5 minutes before collecting the sample, then fill up the container. First Draw and Second Draw samples give an idea of the amount of lead attributed to the plumbing. If only collecting one sample, collect a First Draw.
Complete the analysis request form. For contact information, include at least an email address.
Mail or return to:
IDOH Laboratory
Suite B
550 W 16th St
Indianapolis, IN 46202
Refrigeration is not required. Sample must be received within 14 days of sampling.
The report will be emailed within 21 business days after receiving the sample.
Results are reported electronically to IDEM.
