The NWT government says it still isn’t sure of the “exact source” of lead in two Yellowknife schools’ water but has taken steps to make sure that water is safe ahead of the new academic year.
Setting out a list of “new measures” in a Wednesday news release, the GNWT said it had sought expert advice and adopted best practices from elsewhere in a bid to “effectively resolve the issue and ensure the water is safe over the long term.”
At William McDonald School, which reported significantly elevated lead levels in various drinking water sources earlier this year, the GNWT said it will replace all fountains and fixtures used for drinking water or food prep before students and staff return.
Carbon filters will be installed to remove lead from each of those water sources. More testing will take place to “confirm water safety,” and the GNWT said those tests will be ongoing, though it didn’t specify how frequently they wil ltake place.
“At this time, pipe replacement is not considered necessary as the new measures are expected to resolve the issue,” the GNWT stated. “However, it will be considered during the next major renovation to provide an added safeguard.”
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At Range Lake North School, where some elevated levels of lead had also been recorded, fountains and fixtures are also being replaced and an automated flushing system is being installed to stop water sitting in pipes.
The testing at Range Lake North largely indicated an issue after water had been sitting for a time.
“Water will be tested to confirm the flushing system’s effectiveness and overall water quality. The flushing system will be programmed for regular operation, maintained to ensure it continues to prevent lead from building up in the water supply, and tested regularly to ensure continued safety,” the GNWT stated.
The territory said it will still provide bottled water – or at least, an alternative water source – for drinking and cooking at both schools until “all safety measures are in place” and follow-up tests have confirmed the water is safe.
Until then, do-not-consume orders from the NWT’s chief public health officer will remain in place.
The GNWT said it’s also drawing up a new approach to water testing across the territory’s schools.
