Prince William County Public Schools (PWCS) is committed to ensuring safe, high-quality drinking water for all students and staff. As part of this commitment, the Environmental Services team tests water fixtures used for drinking and food preparation in schools and support facilities to ensure compliance. Any fixture found above Virginia’s action level for lead is taken out of service immediately and corrected before returning to use.
Families and staff may request lead-in-water sampling results by contacting Mr. Wayne French, PE, at [email protected].
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does PWCS test for lead in drinking water?
Lead can enter water from plumbing materials. Testing helps ensure that fixtures used by students and staff meet public health standards and remain safe for drinking and food preparation.
Which fixtures are tested?
PWCS tests drinking fountains, classroom sinks used for consumption, kitchen fixtures, nurses’ stations, and other fixtures where water may be ingested.
How often does testing occur?
Testing is conducted on a routine cycle and whenever fixtures are replaced, renovated, or newly installed.
What happens if a fixture exceeds the lead action level?
The fixture is immediately removed from service. Environmental Services coordinates corrective actions such as fixture replacement, plumbing changes, or installation of certified filters. The fixture is not returned to service until follow-up testing confirms it meets standards.
What is the action level for lead in drinking water?
Virginia follows an action level of 10 parts per billion (ppb). Any result above this level requires corrective action.
How can families and staff access testing results?
Sample results are available upon request. Please contact Mr. Wayne French, PE, at [email protected] to obtain lead-in-water testing information for a specific school or facility.
Who can I contact with other questions?
For general questions about the Lead in Drinking Water Testing Program, you may also contact the PWCS Environmental Services team through Risk, Safety & Environmental or email Mr. Wayne French, PE, at [email protected].