Lead levels elevated in 19 Hermiston school water faucets, fixtures

Recent tests show that 19 Hermiston school water fixtures have elevated levels of lead.

The Hermiston school district had water fixtures tested at 853 sites total, according to a news release. The Oregon Health Authority recommended in April that all state schools and daycare centers perform lead tests on all water sources this summer.

Those that showed higher levels of lead are not primary drinking sites, which includes fountains and faucets specifically used to fill water bottles. Secondary fixtures include sinks used in bathrooms, kitchens and at science class stations.

Hermiston schools receive their water from the City of Hermiston, which has remained “in compliance with federal and state standards for lead monitoring and treatment,” the release said.

All fixtures with elevated lead levels have been tagged with “do not use” signs.

This story was originally published August 9, 2016 at 12:12 PM with the headline "Lead levels elevated in 19 Hermiston school water faucets, fixtures."