Information about Lead in Drinking Water

Lead is harmful to people, especially children. Excessive amounts of lead place adults at higher risk for a number of adverse health effects. Children are at an even greater risk because their rapidly growing bodies absorb lead more quickly. Lead exposure can come from lead paint or dust, particularly in older homes. Drinking water is generally a smaller source of exposure to lead.

In Oklahoma, there are more than 900 public water systems that are required to sample for lead and to report sampling results to DEQ.

DEQ has compiled a list of resources below to help you learn more about lead in drinking water.

• EPA’s Lead and Copper Rule
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
• Drinking Water Watch