MCPS Schools Test Positive for High Lead Levels in Water

March 11, 2022March 11, 2022 Former Staff Member 0 Comments Department of the Environment, Kat Comer, lead, MCPS

A study by the Maryland Department of the Environment found that 15.3% of water in Maryland schools showed high levels of lead, equal to or over 5 ppb (parts per billion or microgram per liter). 9% of tests done in Montgomery County schools showed these elevated levels, while counties such as Worcester showed over 48% of positive tests. Blake is included in one of those schools, along with BCC, Magruder, Damascus, and many more.

All Maryland schools are required to have their drinking and non-drinking water tested at least every three years. For reference, the 15 ppb of lead in water is considered unsafe. Schools that test for high lead levels will need to close the tested sites for use and sample other sites within the school to determine future action.