How can lead be introduced into drinking water?

Lead can be introduced into drinking water primarily through lead pipes, plumbing fixtures, or as a result of corrosion of plumbing materials that contain lead. When water sits in lead pipes or contact surfaces for extended periods, lead can leach into the water supply. This is especially a concern in older homes and buildings that may have lead plumbing systems still in use.

The presence of lead in drinking water poses serious health risks, particularly for children and pregnant women, as lead can cause neurological and developmental issues. It is important for properties with suspected lead plumbing to undergo assessments to ensure water safety.

While options such as water treatment processes or additives that contain lead could theoretically introduce lead, they are not standard practices in water treatment aimed at ensuring safe drinking water and are generally avoided due to health concerns. The idea that bacteria can introduce lead is also incorrect, as bacteria do not contain lead nor do they corrode pipes in a way that would release lead into water. Thus, the primary pathway for lead contamination is indeed through physical plumbing materials.