Who collects the samples?
If it’s not specified who should collect the sample(s). Samples may be collected by the school/daycare staff or a third-party contractor and submitted to the lab for analysis. Your choice may be based on your budget.
Where Should I collect the Drinking Water samples from?
All sources of (non-bottled) potable water that may be ingested by children and/or used in food preparation should be tested. This includes locations such as water fountains, kitchen taps/faucets, and classroom sinks. Janitorial sinks are not required sampling points.
How Many Samples Should I Collect?
Two samples per location should be collected – 1st draw after water is standing in the plumbing for 6-18 hours and 2nd draw after a 30-second flush following the 1st draw sample collection. Use only COLD water.
What Type of Container is Required?
We need the sample in 250mL containers, which will be provided for all sampling locations except ice makers, for which 1L containers will be provided. A flush sample is NOT required for ice makers. (Download Our Sample Kit Order Form for daycare facilities).
How Do I Identify my Samples?
All samples must be properly labeled such that the locations are easy to identify; the date and time of collection must also be included. A master sampling plan will help you easily label the samples (For example: Sample 001 corresponds to Kitchen Sink-First Draw). (download an example Sample ID Spreadsheet and Chain of Custody Completion Guide)
How do I submit samples for analysis?
Upon collection, samples and accompanying documentation like the chain of custody (CoD) may be submitted to the lab in person or via common carrier/shipping services. Shipping may be the most economical choice. (We have provided Teklab’s Step by Step sampling guide for daycare facilities).
What do I do once I get my report?
Contact the provider with any questions regarding the report. Results should be compared to drinking water standards. 3Ts for Reducing Lead in Drinking Water in Schools (USEPA), Public Act 099-0922 (IL), 225 ILCS 10/5.9, and Policy Guide 2017-13.
Do I need to provide the report to parents?
In short, yes, notification is required and recommended. Please review the law for how/when to report to parents about conducting a facility-wide drinking water study for their safety.
What do I do if my sample results are over the limit in the law?
The State regulatory agency may provide guidance on mitigation requirements. The following is the EPA’s PDF that includes information that may be useful: 3Ts for Reducing Lead in Drinking Water in Schools (USEPA), Public Act 099-0922 (IL), 225 ILCS 10/5.9, and Policy Guide 2017-13.
Why is lead in drinking water a priority?
Potential health affects in children of school-age range from reduced IQ to hyperactivity and impaired growth. There are many potential toxins that can be leached into the potable water we consume.
Teklab has a detailed step by step guide for daycares, to get started working through the process of having your facility’s drinking water tested for lead.
Need a Quote or want more information?
Call or email Liz Hurley at: [email protected]
Call us Toll free: (877) 344-1003 EXT 33
