This summer we will be taking water samples from various buildings on campus.  We will release the test results as soon as we receive them.  For more detailed information, please see below.

If you have questions, please direct them to ehs@humboldt.edu.

What is prompting the tests?
Two CSU campuses, Sacramento and Long Beach, tested the drinking water on their campuses and found that some points of delivery (fixtures) tested above the California Drinking Water standard limit for lead of 15 parts per billion (PPB).  As a precautionary step, Humboldt State’s administration has decided to proactively test our drinking water to ensure we meet the standard.

The source of drinking water on campus
Water on campus is supplied by the City of Arcata.  Their water quality reports can be obtained from:  http://www.cityofarcata.org/327/Water-Quality-Reports

Where does lead come from?
While the City of Arcata has determined the water coming into campus meets regulatory requirements, it is possible pipes and drinking fountains could introduce lead into the water.  The purpose of the testing is to identify fixtures (if any) yielding an elevated level of lead.

Why are we testing during the summer?
Testing during the summer break will allow us to follow the Environmental Protection Agency’s testing method.  This method requires fixtures to not be used for at least 8 hours and then tested.  Testing while the campus is minimally occupied will decrease disruptions and ensure sample validity.

What if a fixture’s test results exceed the standard?
Fixtures which test higher than the 15 ppb will immediately be removed from service.  At that point decisions will be made on the next step which could include retesting or replacing the fixture.

Where will I obtain drinking water if my normal fixture has been taken out of service?
Depending on the proximity of the next available fixture, the University will provide an alternative source of drinking water in an appropriate location.

How do I find out more about lead in drinking water?
If you need a better understanding of lead, please visit one of the sites below:

Environmental Protection Agency – https://www.epa.gov/ground-water-and-drinking-water/basic-information-about-lead-drinking-water

State Water Resources Control Board –https://www.waterboards.ca.gov/gama/docs/coc_lead.pdf

Center for Disease Control – https://www.cdc.gov/nceh/lead/tips/wter.htm