UNITED STATES ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY
OFFICE OF THE ADMINISTRATOR
April 18,1994
(This information was provided by EXTOXNET - etn04/22/94)


	EPA STATEMENT ON LEAD AND SUBMERSIBLE BRASS PUMPS



     Based upon data received recently, EPA advises homeowners
with submersible brass pumps to have their water tested to see if
it contains levels of lead in excess of our action level of 15
parts per billion (ppb).  If the test indicates lead above 15
ppb, we have prepared information on various things the homeowner
can do to reduce exposure to lead.  A water test for lead
typically costs from $15 to $40, depending on the lab.  While
waiting for the test results, which can take a week or two,
homeowners with new pumps less than a year old, may want to use
bottled water to prevent possible additional lead exposure, since
new brass leaches lead at higher rates.  This step is especially
appropriate if there are children in the home, since children are
particularly sensitive to lead.

     The data on submersible pumps came from EDF who performed
laboratory studies following an NSF International test protocol. 
Submersible pumps are often used in homes that are not on public
water and have their own wells.  We do not have data that would
tell us how long the high lead leaching continues or how much of
the lead coming from such pumps will appear at the water tap and
expose the residents.  To better document the levels at which
people are actually exposed, EPA will undertake further testing
of its own and subject it to peer review, as well as consult with
pump manufacturers to obtain any data they have.   However,
because the levels in this initial study are high, we are
offering advice to homeowners that emphasizes public health
protection above all else.

     We have prepared our hot lines (800-426-4791 for drinking
water, 800-424-LEAD for lead) to answer questions about this
problem and assembled some factual material and suggestions to
the public on how to have your water tested and what actions the
public can take to reduce their potential exposure to lead.  When
EPA completes its studies, we will provide the public with
additional information.