Lead and Copper Rule Revisions (LCRR)
LUS has undertaken comprehensive efforts to gather and systematically organize service line data in order to comply with EPA’s Lead and Copper Rule Revision (LCRR). Utilizing a combination of visual inspections, review of historical records, and statistical analysis, it has been determined that the distribution system does not contain any lead service lines, galvanized lines requiring replacement, or service lines with unknown lead status.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
LUS has been working to ensure our water system complies with the required improvements. More detailed information on the LCRR is available on the EPA and LDH websites. To easily access these websites, scan the QR codes below. For more information, please contact LUS’s Regulatory Compliance Specialist, Christopher Lyon, at 337-291-8042 or clyon@lus.org.
What are the Lead and Copper Rule Revisions?
The Lead and Copper Rule Revisions are an update to federal regulations designed to enhance the protection of public health by reducing lead and copper levels in drinking water. On November 30, 2023, the EPA announced the proposed Lead and Copper Rule Improvements (LCRI). The first phase of implementation requires every public water system to establish an initial field inspection to inventory service lines within the system. The final rule has not been published yet, but a summary of the proposed rule can be found here.
What is a service line inventory?
The service line inventory is a requirement under the Lead and Copper Rule Revisions, which mandates water systems to compile and maintain detailed records of all service lines within their distribution systems. This includes identifying whether service lines are made of lead, copper, or other materials. The initial field investigations will include 400 addresses around the Lafayette area.
Why is the service line inventory important?
- Health Protection: Identifying service lines helps target areas for replacement, reducing the risk of lead contamination in drinking water.
- Transparency: Provides consumers with clear information about the type of pipes serving their homes and communities.
- Regulatory Compliance: Ensures water systems meet regulatory requirements and address potential sources of contamination. LUS’s water treatment plan helps prevent the water running through distribution lines from picking up lead particles, if present.
What information is included in the service line inventory?
- Type of Material: Information on whether service lines are made of lead, copper, galvanized, plastic, or other materials.
- Location: Geographic and address-specific details of where service lines are installed.
- Condition: Notes on the condition and age of the service lines, if available.
- Replacement Status: Information on whether service lines have been replaced or are scheduled for replacement. A customer with a lead service line, galvanized line requiring replacement (GRR), or service line of an unknown material will be notified by LUS within 30 days of the service inventory completion. Replacement will be as mandated by the EPA and Louisiana Department of Health (LDH). LUS will also offer information about reducing lead in drinking water and its health effects. In addition, LUS will send an annual notification to this customer until line replacement is complete.