Lead in Schools

Testing for Lead in Drinking Water in Schools

Please note: the price above is per water faucet/fixture and includes laboratory testing of two sequential samples as required by EPA. If you have questions, call (708) 544-3260.

Please wait for a confirmation email that your kit is ready if you are planning to pick up samples from Geneva or Oak Brook Terrace

Why test for lead?

Lead is a toxic metal that was sometimes used in plumbing materials and water service lines. Even at low levels, lead may cause a range of health effects including behavioral problems and learning disabilities, especially in young children.  The US EPA recommends schools and day care centers test for lead and some states like Illinois require testing. Illinois requires schools built before January 1, 2000 test their water.

How many samples do I need to take?

It is recommended that a minimum two (2) samples be collected from each water source that can potentially be used for drinking and/or food preparation.  This includes all taps, faucets, water fountains and wash basins excluding bathroom sinks and janitorial wash basins.  A "first-draw" sample should be collected after the water system has been standing for 8-18 hours.  The second "flush" sample should be taken after the first-draw sample and after the water has run for 30 seconds.

Each location, building, room and water source type should be identified and coded.  With your order, Suburban Laboratories will provide you with a field sampling spreadsheet that allows you to easily code each water source and record sample information.  After you know the number of sources, you are ready to order test kits.  You will need to order 2 sample containers for each water source identified.

More Information

Click here to download School Sampling in 6 Easy Steps, a convenient guide for sampling and testing schools:

Click here to download our Field Sample Data Form to record your sample information and submit to the laboratory:

Your test kit will include a sample bottle for each sample, easy to follow sample collection instructions and a spreadsheet for coding your water sources and recorded sample information. When testing is complete, a certified report will be emailed.

Testing performed by Suburban Laboratories, Inc (IL Accreditation #100225)