Lead

The Lead and Copper Rule Revisions went into effect starting December 16^th, 2021.

Over the next 5 years, $15 billion will be provided for lead service line replacement. Starting in 2022, the first $2.9 billion in Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funding will be allocated. On top of the $15 billion dedicated solely to the lead service line replacement, the Infrastructure Law will include $11.7 billion for the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund, this additional funding will also be available for use in identifying,  documenting, and removing lead service lines.

By the compliance date of October 16, 2024, all water systems must submit an inventory of service lines to the state. All water systems with inventory that includes lead service lines, galvanized lines that are or ever were downstream of an LSL, or lead status unknown service lines must also provide a lead service line replacement plan.

• https://www.federalregister.gov/d/2020-28691/p-1199
• https://www.federalregister.gov/d/2020-28691/p-1200

Download AWWA’s Lead Communications Guide and Toolkit, which draws insights and examples from utilities throughout the U.S. and Canada that are at the forefront of communicating about water quality and lead. This document includes:

• A summary of the LCRR requirements and what they mean for your utility’s communication and outreach efforts
• Checklists for meeting key LCRR communication and outreach requirements and assessing your readiness for implementation
• Communication best practices, examples, and guidance
• Tips on communicating with your community about water quality

With the announcements of upcoming Lead & Copper Rule Revisions, water utilities need targeted and credible resources to help craft the best lead reduction plan for their specific community, including strategies for corrosion control. This training guides participants through a decision process that experience has shown to be successful in developing corrosion control strategies.

Courses Now Available

1. Corrosion Control Theory and Treatment Options (EL285)
2. Assessing Need for a Corrosion Control Evaluation (EL286)
3. Performing a Corrosion Control Evaluation (EL287)

Following revisions to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Lead and Copper Rule (LCR), drinking water utilities are required to identify and make the locations of lead service lines(LSLs) publicly available. If LSLs exist in the water distribution system, utilities must prepare a plan to replace LSLs. The replacement plan must be developed by October 2024.

AWWA commissioned this report to inform EPA’s development of the Lead and Copper Improvements (LCRI). AWWA’s goal was to determine a more complete cost of service line material identification and LSL replacement. As a result of this study, costs have been compiled that can be used to update current planning level cost estimates of service line verification and LSLR programs.

Workers who replace lead water service lines may be exposed to lead pipes and lead-contaminants. Access the latest guidance from the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health.