MARION, OH–Aqua is working with regulators to notify customers in the Marion service area whose service lines are made of lead, galvanized steel or unknown material by mail. Service lines connect a home or other building to the water main. Locations with service lines confirmed to be made of other lead-free materials will not receive notification.

“Aqua’s mission is to provide a safe and reliable water supply,” said Scott Ballenger, area manager for Aqua’s Marion Division. “We are working with the EPA to identify lead service lines. Once identified, we will work with property owners to replace those lines.”

Research has shown that lead causes serious health complications, especially in young children. Ohio has banned the use of lead pipes in plumbing since 1988. Lead pipes may still be present in homes built before that time.

Customers are not being asked to take any action at this time. The notification letters are sent for informational and regulatory purposes and provide simple tips to limit lead exposure. They also inform customers that Aqua is working to identify unknown utility line materials and replace those made of lead or galvanized steel at no direct cost.

Aqua takes steps to prevent lead from entering the water they distribute and conducts routine testing to ensure lead levels remain below acceptable limits. Nevertheless, Aqua works with the Ohio EPA and USEPA to eliminate lead service lines.

About Aqua Ohio

Aqua Ohio is the Buckeye State’s largest investor-owned drinking water and wastewater utility, serving approximately 500,000 residents in 19 counties. For more information, visit AquaAmerica.com or follow Aqua on Facebook at facebook.com/MyAquaAmerica and on Twitter at @MyAquaAmerica.