Monitoring Lead in Red Deer’s Water
Water Service Responsibility (pdf)
What is lead?
Lead is a bluish-grey soft malleable metal that is found in small amounts on earth’s outer layer. Since lead is highly resistant to corrosion and very malleable, it is used in the construction of piping to transport corrosive liquids, in building construction, lead-acid batteries, bullets and shot, weights, and is part of solder, pewter, fusible alloys and radiation shields.
Where is lead most commonly found?
Lead is present almost everywhere in nature. It can be found in air, soil, dust, drinking water, food and various consumer products. Lead can be taken into the body through ingestion and/or inhalation and extensive man-made use has resulted in its widespread presence in the environment.
What is a lead service line?
Lead services lines are pipes made out of lead that connect the City owned water main to your home. In homes constructed before 1960, building codes allowed the use of lead for water pipes, as well as plumbing materials such as solder and brass fittings with high lead content. These are the primary sources of lead contamination in drinking water.
What is being done?
The Water Treatment Plant uses a caustic soda treatment to balance the pH of drinking water and reduce water corrosivity. This process provides a protective coating on the pipes, minimizing lead leaching. You can also have your tap water tested for lead.
Am I affected?
The City has been actively contacting and working with residents to check the material of water service lines and to monitor lead levels in drinking water. If your home was built before 1960 and you have questions, contact Utility Services at 403-342-8750.