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Identifying the Gaps in Practice for Combating Lead in Drinking Water in Hong Kong

Author

Listed:
  • Wai Ling Lee

    (Department of Building Services Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China)

  • Jie Jia

    (Department of Building Services Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China)

  • Yani Bao

    (Department of Building Services Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China)

Abstract

Excessive lead has been found in drinking water in Hong Kong in tests carried out in 2015. Investigations have identified that the problem in public rental housing estates was caused by the problematic solders used in the plumbing, and recommendations on enhancing the quality control system and strengthening the relevant water quality standards have been proposed. The cause for the same problem happening in other premises where soldering has not been adopted for water pipe connections is left unidentified. Considering the unidentified cause and the recommendations made, this study aims to identify the gaps in practice followed in Hong Kong for safeguarding the water quality of new installations. A holistic review of governing ordinances and regulations, products and materials used and the testing and commissioning requirements adopted in Hong Kong and elsewhere in the world were conducted. Based on international practices and parametric analysis, it was found that there are gaps in practices followed in Hong Kong, which are directly and indirectly leading to the lead-in-water crisis. Recommendations for improvement in the quality control system, and the water quality standards including the allowable lead content and leaching limit for products and materials and the testing and commissioning requirements on plumbing installations have been made. The review and the identified gaps would become useful reference for countries in strengthening their relevant water quality standards.

Suggested Citation

  • Wai Ling Lee & Jie Jia & Yani Bao, 2016. "Identifying the Gaps in Practice for Combating Lead in Drinking Water in Hong Kong," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 13(10), pages 1-18, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jijerp:v:13:y:2016:i:10:p:970-:d:79707
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Hanna-Attisha, M. & LaChance, J. & Sadler, R.C. & Schnepp, A.C., 2016. "Elevated blood lead levels in children associated with the flint drinking water crisis: A spatial analysis of risk and public health response," American Journal of Public Health, American Public Health Association, vol. 106(2), pages 283-290.
    2. Ding-Quan Ng & Yi-Pin Lin, 2016. "Evaluation of Lead Release in a Simulated Lead-Free Premise Plumbing System Using a Sequential Sampling Approach," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 13(3), pages 1-15, February.
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