Lead and Copper Rule Revisions

In response to nationwide concerns of lead exposure through drinking water, the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) published the Lead and Copper Rule Revisions (LCRR) (40 CFR 141.84). The law mandates that public water systems tabulate and make available an inventory of water service lines with their material of construction. In particular, the inventory focuses on whether or not water service lines contain lead. The initial inventory must be submitted to the Georgia Environmental Protection Division no later than October 16, 2024.

What is a service line?

A water service line is the pipe that connects the water main to your home or building inlet. Service lines may be made of copper or other materials such as galvanized iron or steel, plastic, brass, or lead. If any portion of the pipe is made of lead, it is called a lead service line (LSL). In Bainbridge ownership of the service line is split at the meter box between the customer side and the city side, or system-owned side. The diagram below illustrates this.

Why is it important for me to know if my home has a lead or galvanized service line?

Lead is a toxin that poses serious health risks, and infants, young children, and pregnant people are particularly vulnerable to lead exposure. Lead service lines and plumbing materials (including solder, fixtures, and faucets) are the most common sources of lead in a home’s drinking water. Galvanized iron or steel pipe can pose a risk if it has ever been connected downstream of a lead service line, as lead can attach to the inner surface of galvanized steel and be released into drinking water over time. Service lines made of galvanized iron or steel that are (or were previously) downstream of LSLs are classified as galvanized requiring replacement (GRR) service line.

What is the City of Bainbridge doing?

The City of Bainbridge Water Department has already completed an initial inventory of service line materials, which will be made publicly available on the Water Department website. The City of Bainbridge has found zero lead service lines so far but there are still a few unknowns yet to be verified. Your service line may be labeled as: lead, galvanized requiring replacement, non-lead, or unknown. In the event your service line is lead or galvanized requiring replacement or unknown, you will receive a notice within 30 days of October 16, 2024.

Where can I go to ask questions and get more information?

More information about the Lead and Copper Rule Revisions can be found at https://epd.georgia.gov/watershed-protection-branch/drinking-water.

For more information on lead in drinking water, visit: https://www.epa.gov/ground-water-and-drinking-water/basic-information-about-lead-drinking-water.

Additionally, you can reach out to April Crosby directly at acrosby@bainbridgecity.com, or at 229-248-2015.