City of Manassas Utilities, MCPS Working Together against Lead

From City of Manassas:

Drinking water has been a huge concern this year in many localities and in the media. Lead in drinking water can cause serious health concerns in pregnant women and young children. The City of Manassas Utilities Department and the Manassas City Public Schools have joined forces to ensure the safety of our children in our school system.

The City of Manassas Utilities Department performs testing for lead and copper in the drinking water on a regular schedule. Because the results have been optimal, samples consistently testing below the EPA’s action level of 15 parts per billion (ppb), the city is now on a reduced testing level. The most recent testing was performed in 2015 with outstanding results.

In June, lead testing was performed at all Manassas City Public Schools. This testing was not required, but was performed as an additional safety measure for the students of the school system. The EPA guidelines were carefully followed. Samples were collected from water coolers, bubblers and faucets that may be used for drinking. Samples were taken to the Prince William County Service Authority (PWCSA), who partnered with the City for laboratory analysis.

A total of 98 samples were tested, 95 of which contained no measurable lead. Three samples at three different schools contained detectable lead levels with only one of those results was above the EPA action level of 15 ppb.

The three devices that had measurable results have been taken out of service and are being replaced before the school year begins. The Manassas City Public Schools will continue their monitoring and remediation efforts to ensure the safety of all of the school children. This voluntary lead testing is a great example of government entities working together to ensure the future for our school children. Not only did the City of Manassas Utilities Department and the MCPS work together, but they consulted with the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) Prince William Health District, the VDH Office of Drinking Water and the Prince William County Service Authority. The City of Manassas is committed to providing safe drinking water and will continue to work with our local, regional and federal partners.

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