HARRISBURG, PA — The Shapiro Administration has announced the launch of a no-cost water sampling initiative aimed at eliminating lead contamination in the drinking water of schools and childcare facilities across Pennsylvania. This new program, made possible through federal funding, prioritizes reducing childhood lead exposure and ensuring clean, safe drinking water for young Pennsylvanians.
The program is funded by the Voluntary School and Child Care Lead Testing and Reduction Grant Program, which operates through the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Water Infrastructure Improvements for the Nation (WIIN) Program. With this funding, schools and childcare facilities will have access to free testing and potential funding for remediation efforts.
Addressing Lead Exposure in Schools
“Ensuring every Pennsylvanian has access to clean drinking water is a core part of DEP’s mission,” said Acting Secretary of the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), Jessica Shirley. “We know the health risks associated with childhood lead exposure, which is why we’re committed to seeing it eliminated whenever possible. The WIIN program is a win/win for Pennsylvania’s children because it helps find where the problems are and helps eliminate them.”
The risk of lead exposure is particularly concerning in schools and childcare settings, where children spend significant portions of their time. Lead can leach into water when it remains in contact with plumbing materials containing lead, and facilities that experience intermittent water usage are especially susceptible to elevated lead levels. Testing is the only definitive method to detect unsafe levels of lead in drinking water.
Eligibility and Program Details
Under this initiative, eligible schools and childcare facilities can apply for testing and lead reduction activities at no cost. Remediation options include purchasing and installing hydration stations, point-of-use (POU) devices designed to remove lead, and replacing problematic faucets.
To participate in the program, applicants must provide water sample results that show lead levels exceeding the EPA’s remediation trigger of five parts per billion within the 36 months leading up to their application. Additionally, facilities may qualify for up to $3,000 in reimbursement for each hydration station installed.
The DEP has partnered with Terraphase Engineering to oversee and conduct the lead testing in facilities throughout the state. This collaboration is part of a broader effort to identify and eliminate sources of lead in Pennsylvania’s schools and childcare centers.
Interested applicants can visit the Lead Testing Program webpage to determine eligibility.
Commitment to a Safer Commonwealth
The Shapiro Administration’s initiative aligns with ongoing efforts to protect public health and improve water quality statewide. By prioritizing the needs of children and their educational environments, the program seeks to build a healthier future free of lead contamination.
This proactive approach emphasizes the importance of clean drinking water and reinforces the state’s commitment to safeguarding its communities. “By continuing to take action to get lead out of our drinking water, this grant program will promote a healthier, safer Commonwealth,” Shirley said.
Eligible schools and childcare facilities are encouraged to apply promptly to take advantage of this critical program, which represents a significant step forward in reducing childhood lead exposure across Pennsylvania.
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