The Town of Lunenburg’s Water Utility is continuing with the implementation of our Lead and Copper Management Program in accordance with the Approval to Operate issued by Nova Scotia Environment and Climate Change. This program is meant to assess public exposure as well as reduce the exposure of customers if lead or copper levels exceed Health Canada Guidelines. Health Canada has found lead to be a probable carcinogen that can negatively affect cognition and behavior in children. Copper levels exceeding Health Canada’s acceptable concentrations may affect the gastrointestinal tract, liver, and kidneys.
The Town is looking for participants to volunteer for the program. Priority will be given to volunteers based on the likelihood of their residence containing construction materials that present a higher risk of containing lead and copper (houses built prior to 1975) though all levels of risk are encouraged to volunteer. Participants may not have point-of-entry treatment devices such as water softeners. Chosen participants will be asked to book a date and time for the utility to take a sample from their kitchen faucet without removing the aerator or flushing the line. Residents may also arrange with the utility to take the sample themselves and have the sample picked up the same day.
Once samples are analyzed by an approved laboratory, the Town will notify property owners within 30 days of receiving the results if there is no lead or copper exceedances. Property owners whose results exceed Health Canada Guidelines will be notified within 14 days of the town receiving results along with precautions available to the property owner to minimize their exposure.
If you are interested in participating, please notify Lisa Kendall, P.Eng., Municipal Engineer, by email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or by phone at 902 634 4410. We shall require the approximate age of your home and civic address when you confirm your participation interest.
Sincerely,
Tyson Joyce, P.Eng., PMP
Town Engineer