By James Peters

SD73 implements “flush protocol” to address lead issue

Jun 13, 2017 | 10:00 AM

KAMLOOPS — The Kamloops-Thompson School District believes it knows how to solve the problem of lead in the drinking water at several Kamloops-area schools.

A slightly elevated lead level was first detected in Summit Elementary, but then found in water fountains in several other school buildings.

According to the district, testing has determined the lead originates from solder in the pipes.

It builds up in water that has been sitting overnight, but officials say the levels drop rapidly if the overnight water is flushed from the system.

As a result, the district will implement a flushing protocol requiring staff to run the fountains and taps for one minute every morning.

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The protocol will be enacted in all schools throughout the district, and Health and Safety Manager Michelle Marginet says the district worked in concert with Interior Health to develop the plan.

Marginet says long-term solutions are being explored, including the potential of replacing the plumbing in affected schools.