Ontario schools are grappling with the issue of elevated lead levels in drinking water, as a recent analysis reveals concerning trends. Although the number of schools reporting at least one exceedance has decreased over time, data conducted by Andrew Bailey highlights significant challenges remain. At Fisher Park, one of the worst affected schools in the province last year, lead levels reached an alarming 567 parts per billion (ppb), far exceeding both the federal safety guideline of 5 ppb and Ontario's own guideline of 10 ppb. This has prompted calls for urgent action by provincial authorities to address and mitigate the risks posed to students' health.
The analysis by the Investigative Journalism Bureau examined 156,000 test results over a five-year period, identifying elevated lead levels potentially impacting 800,000 public school students across Ontario. The number of schools reporting at least one exceedance peaked at 68 percent during the 2021-22 school year. However, this figure has since declined, with more than a quarter of schools in the Ottawa Carleton District School Board (OCDSB) logging at least one federal lead level exceedance last year. Corey Boyle, the board’s manager of health and safety, stated that "corrective action was taken in response" to these findings.
In the Dufferin-Peel Catholic District School Board, 23 schools were reported to have lead levels exceeding the federal guideline. Despite meeting all provincial requirements for testing and remediation, some schools continue to face challenges. The Ontario Catholic School Board (OCSB) emphasized their commitment to safety, stating, "We have always prioritized the safety and well-being of our students and staff, particularly regarding access to safe drinking water."
Declining Exceedance Rates: A Positive Trend?
Over the past five years, there has been a noticeable decline in the number of schools reporting at least one exceedance. Five years ago, 35 percent of schools reported such exceedances, a figure that climbed to 68 percent at its peak during the 2021-22 school year. This decline is indicative of efforts by school boards and provincial authorities to address the issue.
However, experts warn that even at very low levels of exposure, lead can have life-altering impacts on children's developing brains. The CELA report warns that "in too many schools still have lead in their water" and stresses the necessity for a new approach and funding to protect children's health.
Fisher Park, identified as one of the worst affected schools last year, recorded a lead level of 567 ppb. This significant exceedance is attributed not only to potential issues with sample administration but also to systemic factors that require attention. In response, the fixture at Fisher Park is now on a daily flushing regimen to mitigate risks.
Systematic Testing and Remediation Efforts
The Ontario Ministry of the Environment emphasizes that "Ontario has one of the most stringent testing regimes for lead in drinking water in the country." The ministry's rigorous testing protocols aim to ensure compliance with safety guidelines and prevent exposure to harmful lead levels.
In the Ottawa Carleton District School Board, corrective actions include immediate remediation efforts once an exceedance is detected. Corey Boyle assured that steps are taken to address any issues identified in the testing results promptly.
Despite these efforts, challenges remain. The CELA report highlights that current laws and regulations may still allow children to consume water with potentially harmful lead levels. It calls for a comprehensive review and overhaul of existing policies to safeguard students' health effectively.
Urgent Need for Provincial Action
The analysis underscores an urgent need for provincial action to address and rectify the issue of elevated lead levels in school drinking water. While testing protocols are rigorous, more needs to be done to protect students from potential exposure.
The CELA report argues that "in too many of the institutions that are meant to equip the next generation with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed," current regulations fall short in ensuring safe drinking water standards. It urges Ontario authorities to introduce a new approach and allocate necessary funding to protect children's health.
School boards across Ontario continue to prioritize student safety and take corrective measures as needed. However, sustained efforts at both local and provincial levels are crucial to achieving long-term solutions.
