US: 33 cities have water test samples with violations

(Baonghean.vn) – On June 2 (local time), according to the results of a special investigation by the Guardian newspaper, water test samples were found to be in violation of regulations of the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in at least 33 cities in 17 states of the US.

33 cities in the US found to have substandard water test samples

According to the investigation into the water crisis in Flint, Michigan, the water supply in these cities is highly likely to be contaminated with lead. In addition, 21 of the 33 violating cities used the same testing method that three Flint officials used in the worst public health service scandal in American history.

The crisis was caused by the government’s decision to cut costs by diverting water through a polluted river, substandard water testing methods, and slow government response to the emergency.

A Guardian investigation found that similar water testing methods are used in cities including Chicago, Boston, Philadelphia, Detroit, and Milwaukee, and can produce results with lower lead levels than actually present.

Authorities in Philadelphia and Chicago have asked employees to test their water at home. In Michigan and New Hampshire, samples found to be high in lead are being discarded and collected. Some cities refuse to disclose lead plumbing, citing security concerns.

Three state employees in Flint, Michigan, are facing criminal charges in connection with the crisis. They instructed residents to run their faucets for five minutes before taking samples, a practice that is against EPA regulations because it can lower the actual lead levels measured. Removing the filter from the faucet can also produce similar results. Many cities have adopted this practice, but the EPA has yet to take action to stop it.

Thousands of Flint children have suffered health problems from lead poisoning. Even small amounts of lead can negatively affect children’s development and behavior. The impact of this crisis could be even more widespread because large cities also sell their water to surrounding areas.

The EPA is currently reviewing its regulations on lead and copper in water and its water sampling procedures.

Thanh Hien

(According to The Guardian)