Water Testing in Schools

The New York State Health Department first required school districts to test lead levels in its water supply in 2016 and we did so again in 2020. This requirement applies to all school districts statewide. These regulations have required all public schools to test lead levels in water from every outlet that is being used, or could potentially be used, for drinking or cooking. If lead is found at any water outlet at levels above 5 parts per billion (ppb), which is equal to 5 micrograms per liter (μg/L), the district must put plans in place to reduce the exposure to lead.

This spring, Rush-Henrietta conducted the required water testing in our buildings, and the results were shared with employees and families. Results for the Senior High School and Webster Learning Center are still pending and will be shared when findings are available. Only those outlets testing above the threshold are listed on the results, but all outlets were included in the testing.

Testing is done on all outlets using the first-draw method, meaning the water must have been sitting dormant overnight prior to testing. Although the state requires us to report the results of the first draw of water, it has been our process for years to flush water used in food preparation every morning. After flushing, the levels are below the state limits and are safe to use when preparing meals.

Outlets that tested with lead levels above the state’s action level (5 ppb) were removed from service unless an outlet is a sink faucet needed for handwashing. In that case, we posted a sign at the outlet indicating that the sink is not to be used for drinking. This is the same practice we followed in 2016, the first year school districts were required to do this testing. Outlets that tested below the action level remain in service with no restrictions. Filters to remove any lead have been installed on all drinking fountains.

If you have any questions, please contact Rush-Henrietta Director of Facilities Ken Nelson at 359-5385 or via email at knelson@rhnet.org. Links to information about lead testing from the New York State Department of Health and the New York State Education Department are available on our website at www.rhnet.org/water.