Initial Lead Test Results Released for NEN

Last year, the Missouri Legislature passed Senate Bill 681/662, which requires lead sampling of all drinking water sources, sources used for food preparation, cleaning, and utensil cleaning. The school released the initial results from a test in August 2023 in a letter to parents.

There were 25 samples, three that were above the action level of 5 parts per billion, five samples between 1 part per billion and 4.9 parts per billion, and 17 samples that were under one part per billion. 

The sources that tested above the action requirement for lead were:

–Kitchen dishwashing sink (9.1 ppb)

–Kitchen dishwashing sink (7.8 ppb)

–Kitchen handwashing sink (9.5 ppb)

Remedial steps listed in the letter include:

–Place “Not for Drinking” signs on the affected outlets;

–Remove old gate valves and replace with lead-free ball valves;

–Replace the faucets if necessary;

–Install point of use filtration if necessary;

–Investigate the supply lines and replace if necessary.