Is your plumber lead-free?

We’re campaigning to end the use of lead solder in plumbing and are urging everyone in charge of a property to protect the drinking water in their building by making sure only lead-free solder is used by installers.

A survey of plumbers has shown a number still use lead solder to join pipes and make connections on water systems and two-thirds carry it in their bags. This is despite its use on drinking water systems being illegal as it can leach into supplies. 

Lead can dissolve into drinking water and if it builds up in the body it can cause health issues. Babies and young children are most at risk as it can affect their development.

We’re asking everyone to always question installers working on their drinking water plumbing to check they are using lead-free solder or fittings which don’t need solder. 

We’re also calling for installers to only carry lead-free solder in their bags and sign a pledge to only use lead-free solder.

There is no safe limit for lead so making a note to ask your plumber about lead-free solder will help avoid the possibility of lead leaching into drinking water and protect everyone’s health.

WaterSafe-approved installers showed much more awareness of the dangers of lead solder and were more likely to carry lead-free solder in a separate survey. Find your nearest approved installer here.

For more information on lead and drinking water contact your local water company.