Lead-Free Law
Ground Water and Drinking Water Safety
Overview
On January 4, 2014, Federal Law mandated the wetted surface of every pipe, fixture, and fitting sold for or installed in potable water applications not contain more than 0.25% lead by weight. Below are some details of the law:
- Modified the "Safe Drinking Water Act" of 1974 (amended by "Lead Contamination Control Act" of 1988) to re-define "Lead-Free*" regarding pipes, pipe fittings, plumbing fittings and fixtures.
- Re-defines "Lead-Free*" to mean: (1) not containing more than 0.2% lead in solder and flux; (2) not more than a weighted average of 0.25% lead in wetted surfaces of pipes, pipe and plumbing fittings and fixtures.
- Exempts use or sale of lead pipes, solder, and flux in pipes or plumbing fittings or fixtures used exclusively for non-potable services.
- Establishes formula for calculating weighted average lead content.
Legal Implications
- States responsible for enforcement through state or local plumbing codes or other appropriate means.
- Illegal to introduce into commerce or install any potable water product that does not comply.
- Non-compliance may result in fines, installed product removal costs, lawsuits by private parties or government agency.
Product Availability
Due to manufacturer changes, product availability is changing daily. Many non-lead-free products will be discontinued and new lead-free product introduced with new or different part numbers. Many valves and parts will be phased out and completely discontinued without a lead-free alternative offered. During this transition time, some items may be backordered or have limited quantity available, you will be contacted immediately if an item ordered is not in stock.
Q & A
Find out more by following the link to the EPA (United States Environmental Protection Agency) Ground Water and Drinking Water webpage.