Lead discovered in water supply at Ingham County school building ⋆ Michigan Advance

The Discovery of Lead in Okemos Public Schools Highlights the Importance of Sustainable Development Goals

Introduction

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) and the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) are collaborating with the Ingham County Health Department (ICHD) to address the presence of lead in the drinking water at a building in Okemos Public Schools.

Lead Levels Found in Water Testing

Water testing conducted at Okemos Public Schools Central Montessori building revealed lead levels of 5 parts per billion (ppb) in one location and 9 ppb in another.

Importance of Sustainable Development Goals

While Michigan’s action level for lead is 15 ppb, MDHHS emphasizes that no level of lead is considered safe for drinking water. The presence of lead can lead to brain and kidney damage, behavioral problems, and even death, among other health issues. These concerns align with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 3: Good Health and Well-being.

Legislation to Ensure Safe Drinking Water

In response to the lead discovery, Okemos Superintendent John Hood highlighted recently passed legislation aimed at safeguarding Michigan children from lead-contaminated water. The bipartisan package of bills, known as the “Filter First Legislation,” requires schools and childcare centers to install filtered faucets, develop drinking water management plans, and conduct routine sampling and testing. This legislation aligns with SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation.

Actions Taken to Address Lead Contamination

Following the discovery of lead, the district has taken several actions recommended by MDHHS and EGLE. These actions include cleaning faucet aerators, flushing the system, shutting off problem fixtures, posting “not for drinking” signs, and providing bottled water throughout the building.

Collaboration with Health Departments

The Ingham County Health Department has provided recommendations for lead testing and offered guidance to ensure the health and safety of students and staff. MDHHS has also offered assistance with blood lead level testing if needed. These collaborative efforts align with SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals.

Importance of Lead Testing

Lead exposure can have severe consequences, especially for children. The MDHHS emphasizes that children exposed to lead may experience lower IQ scores, decreased academic achievement, behavioral issues, attention-related disorders, and hearing and kidney function impairments. Regular lead testing is crucial in identifying and addressing lead exposure, aligning with SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being.

Previous Water Crises in Michigan

The Flint water crisis in 2014 and lead poisoning in Benton Harbor, Hamtramck, and Grand Rapids have heightened concerns about lead in drinking water. A study published in JAMA Pediatrics ranked Michigan as the third-highest state in the nation for children with elevated levels of lead in their blood. These incidents highlight the importance of SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation.

Potential Cause of Lead Contamination

The recent construction in the Okemos Public Montessori at Central building is believed to have resulted in lead solder from copper pipes being released into the water supply. The building, which opened in 1923, is the oldest in the district.

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