From the U.S. Government Accountability Office, www.gao.gov Transcript for: Lead in Drinking Water Description: An animated look at how lead can get into drinking water, and what EPA suggests you can do about it. Related GAO Works: GAO-17-424: Drinking Water: Additional Data and Statistical Analysis May Enhance EPA's Oversight of the Lead and Copper Rule Released: October 2017 [ Background Music ] [Opening Screen] Information In Motion When you hear news about lead in drinking water, you may wonder how that happens--and whether you’re at risk. Is there anything you can do to reduce your risk? Let’s answer some of those questions. Here’s a look at a water system. Water can come from an underground source, like an aquifer, or an above-ground source like a river or reservoir. It’s piped from the source to a water treatment facility. The water is treated and sent out via water mains and service lines. These pipes could possibly be made of lead. Water with certain chemical properties--such as acidity--can cause pipes to break down, or corrode. Corrosion can happen to pipes, solders or joints, or fixtures. If they’re made of lead or brass, they can leach lead into the water that ends up in homes or buildings. Public health agencies have determined that no level of lead is safe for consumption. The Environmental Protection Agency works with states, water systems, and others to ensure that water is routinely tested for lead and treated when necessary. So, what can you do about lead in your drinking water? EPA suggests a few steps: If you want to determine the quality of your water, one option is to contact your local water utility for a copy of their latest annual report. Or, you can have your home’s drinking water tested for lead by a certified lab, which may require a fee. Next, there are also some simple things you can do to minimize lead in drinking water. Let your water run before using it for drinking or cooking. Only use water from the cold tap. Use water filters or similar treatment devices. Consider replacing pipes, solders, and plumbing fixtures that contain lead. For more on lead in drinking water, and the federal government’s role in preventing it, click the attached link to view our report, and visit us at GAO.gov. [Last Screen ] GAO logo.