We are seeing lower lead levels in the tap water of citizens served by lead water pipes, and there have been no major water quality problems as a result of adding orthophosphate to the water. Lead, a common natural metal found throughout the environment, can be harmful if too much of it enters the body. People can be exposed to lead from many sources, such as lead paint, dust, food, and air pollution.
Drinking water can also be a source of lead.
The Guidelines for Canadian Drinking Water Quality set acceptable levels of lead in drinking water to protect against the risk of adverse health effects. Only a few residences are slightly above the guideline. We will continue to monitor lead levels and expect that they will continue to decrease over the next several months. There is no detectable lead in Shoal Lake, the source of Winnipeg's water supply. However, our water is soft, and all soft water is naturally corrosive.