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1. Why test school drinking water for lead?

Per information from DDW, recent events in the United States have shown that lead in drinking water remains an on-going public health concern. Although lead is rarely found in California's drinking water sources, water passing through older plumbing fixtures can be exposed to lead.  The Lead and Copper Rule requires public water systems to test for lead in the drinking water but does not require schools to test their water for lead.

2. Is my school required to be tested for lead per Assembly Bill 746?

All public schools with buildings constructed prior to January 1, 2010, and provided water by a public water system must have their water tested for lead by July 1, 2019.  AB 746 does not apply to private schools. 

Public schools may be exempt from testing if they meet one of the following requirements:

• The school was constructed after January 1, 2010, or had the plumbing system replaced after January 1, 2010.  Proof of new construction or plumbing system replacement after January 1, 2010, must be submitted to Santa Rosa Water.
• The school is a regulated community water system that tests its water in compliance with the Lead and Copper Rule.
• The school tested its water system for lead after January 1, 2009, and posted the information on the school’s website.

To claim an exemption, the school must send a letter to Santa Rosa Water by November 9, 2018.  Proof of the exemption must be included with the letter.