17/1/19 – Strathfieldsaye (Victoria) – Lead

17/1/19: Strathfieldsaye (Victoria) – Lead 0.033mg/L (max).

A sample, collected from the Strathfieldsaye WSL as part of Coliban Water’s sampling program, had an elevated level of lead (0.033mg/L), which exceeded the health-based guideline value
for lead (0.01mg/L) in the ADWG. As a part of the investigation, the condition of the sample point was visually inspected to determine whether the sample point assembly was likely to be the cause, as lead leaching from the brass fittings in the assembly is the common cause of isolated elevated lead results reported for the drinking water samples.

The visual inspection showed no signs of corrosion, but found that the water supply connection to the property had been disconnected. As per the assessment of the relevant water quality data and findings from the site inspection, the probable cause of the one off elevated lead result was a combination of stagnation of water in the service line and the inadequate flushing of the service line prior to the collection of the sample.

Water samples were collected from the Strathfieldsaye water distribution network including the location, where elevated lead
result was reported, for testing of relevant water quality parameters.

The lead results for the follow-up tests were well below the health based guideline value in the
ADWG, indicating that there were no long-term, systemic issues related to lead in Strathfieldsaye. The sample point was retired

Lead Australian Drinking Water Guideline 0.01mg/L

“… Lead can be present in drinking water as a result of dissolution from natural sources, or from household plumbing systems containing lead. These may include lead in pipes, or in solder used to seal joints. The amount of lead dissolved will depend on a number of factors including pH, water hardness and the standing time of the water.