THUNDER BAY – The city of Thunder Bay is suspending a water treatment program that reduces the amount of lead in residents’ drinking water. The change is expected to increase lead levels in the drinking water of residents with lead service pipes. Those affected will be contacted by the city and provided with free filters, officials say.
The treatment program, introduced in 2016, reduces corrosion in lead pipes by adding small amounts of sodium hydroxide to the city’s water, which changes pH levels. The strategy has cut the number of local homes with unsafe lead levels at the tap in half – though that still leaves an estimated 1,000 that exceed provincial guidelines.
But despite that success, the city says increased reports of “pinhole leaks” in water pipes have prompted a review of the sodium hydroxide program. In the meantime, the strategy will be suspended. In a release, the city did not confirm if it has evidence the chemical is responsible for causing the leaks, but said the issue requires “further review.”
In a release, the city says it’s important residents put the filters in place. Officials have previously said simple water filters can be an effective way to reduce lead levels.
“In the coming weeks, customers with lead service pipes will receive additional information on this change and will be provided with a drinking water filter for one year at no charge,” said Michelle Warywoda, Director – Environment Division. “It is important customers use the filter provided as lead found in drinking water can pose significant health risks. This is especially important for homes with children under the age of 6, pregnant women, or women planning a pregnancy.”
Officials also reminded residents to routinely flush pipes to maintain quality, such as by taking a shower, flushing the toilet, doing a load of laundry, or running a cold water tap.
The city says it is working with the Thunder Bay District Health Unit and Ontario's Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks. More information can be found at the city’s website.
