CLARKSBURG, W.Va. — Multiple agencies are testing for lead in the Clarksburg water system after tests failed at at least three residential properties.
State Health Officer Dr. Ayne Amjad said it is a very serious situation that have far-reaching public health consequences.
“Health & Human Resources and Bureau for Public Health is working alongside the EPA and the Clarksburg Water Board to identify if there are additional lead service lines in older homes that might have high levels of lead in the drinking water,” Amjad said Monday.
The lines were tested for the presence of lead in homes after elevated levels of lead were found in in children through the Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program. The tests show lead levels exceed the EPA’s action level of 15 parts per billion. The Clarksburg Water System plan includes additional sampling, increased frequency of monitoring, installation of a corrosion control system and an alternate source of drinking water or point of use filters for homeowners.
“In younger kids, that’s when we really get concerned because that’s when they’re developing,” Amjad said,” You can have developmental delays, IQ problems and mood disorders. I can cause anywhere from acute problems to long-term problems.”
The testing is expected to last for the next few weeks. In the meantime, Amjad encourages families to take steps to evaluate the potential problem and take steps to mitigate it. According to Dr. Amjad, the lead test for children can completed by a doctor with a pin prick to the finger. Parents with young children should confer with their pediatrician.
“Have your children tested, use bottled water if your home is old,” Amjad said. “We’re moving as fast as we can to check everything in those areas of high-concern at this time.”
Depending on the results of the tests some homeowners could have to replace some water pipes at their own expense.
“If the line is affected up to the person’s home that would be the water board’s responsibility,” Amjad said. “If the line is affected at the person’s property that’s a different story.”
Additional steps all consumers can take include flushing water lines used for drinking and cooking and using bottled water for making baby formula. Boiling water does not remove lead from water.
“Anyone that has an older home, usually in the 1950s or earlier, or any young children that can have high lead levels it can be very serious. I am concerned because once you find lead levels that are high you have to start aggressively testing everywhere.”
Questions regarding the Clarksburg Water System and the risk for lead exposure in the water should be directed to Bob Davis, Clarksburg Water System Chief Water Operator, at 304-624-5467, extension 121.