A Laboratory Study of the Leaching of Lead

Twelve faucets, representing various designs, materials of construction, and manufacturers, were studied in the laboratory to develop additional information about the leaching of lead and other metals from common kitchen faucets. It was found that new cast-brass faucets could contribute lead to drinking water in excess of the proposed no action level of 10 /ug/L. Also, 60-75 percent of the lead leached from a faucet appeared in the first 125 mL of water collected from the faucet. After 200-250 mL of water had flowed, 95 percent or more of the lead had normally been flushed from the faucet. Determining the maximum lead concentration from a faucet requires that both cold and hot water sides of the faucet be sampled and that the samples be no larger than 100-125 mL.