An academic study has linked rising murder rates with the use of lead water supply pipes in certain American cities. While the effects of lead contamination through the water supply have been largely diminished in the UK since 1970, this does suggest that eliminating lead pipework altogether with replacement water pipes would be a good thing.

What are the Effects of Lead Contamination?

The most vulnerable people to the effects of lead in drinking water are
children and pregnant women. With children, if the level of lead in their bloodstream is above a certain level they can suffer from behaviour and learning problems, hyperactivity and a lower IQ, slowed growth, anaemia, and even hearing problems.

For pregnant women, the effects can be reduced foetal growth and possibly premature birth.

The symptoms of lead poisoning include loss of appetite, headaches, abdominal pain, headaches, and tiredness.

What Action Should You Take?

Firstly, check to see if you have lead pipework. Generally the pipes leading to the kitchen tap, either beneath or behind the kitchen sink, are a good indicator. If the pipes are a dull grey colour, or if they feel soft, so that you can scrape at the surface with a knife, leaving a silvery underlayer, then they are made of lead.

If you’re not sure, don’t leave it to chance: contact Pipeline Services and we’ll check for you.

When we visit, we’ll assess the condition and consistency of your pipework and, should it need replacing, perform a full risk assessment.

What Happens Next?

With the technology we currently have, we can complete the task of providing replacement water pipes without disruptive excavations. Trenchless technology involves us drilling strategically positioned boreholes. Once these are in position, we can pull your replacement pipework into position.

Obviously this minimises disruption to your property, but it is also extremely cost-effective in terms of time and manpower.

Your replacement water pipes will be made from medium-density polyethylene (MDPE). This is a tried and tested, durable material, which will ensure your water supply is reliable and, most importantly, safe.

If you’ve got any doubts about your current water supply or pipework, contact Pipeline Services today. We’re friendly, approachable, and we’ll give you a very clear picture about your pipework.