Use of Lead Free Pipes, Fittings, Fixtures, Solder and Flux for Drinking Water (Renewal)

The Reduction of Lead in Drinking Water Act of 2011 (RLDWA, the Act) modified the technical definition of lead free by lowering the maximum lead content of pipes, fittings, and fixtures from 8% to 0.25% and introduced greater complexity to calculating lead free by requiring that level be met based on a weighted average of wetted surfaces. The Act also created exemptions for certain plumbing products from pre-existing lead free requirements. The final rule establishes product certification requirements for products intended for potable use applications in public water systems and residential or non-residential facilities to demonstrate compliance with the lead free requirements. EPA expects that these requirements for lead content in plumbing materials used in new installations and repairs will result in fewer sources of lead in drinking water and, consequently, will reduce adverse health effects associated with exposure to lead in drinking water. Manufacturers with 10 or more employees or importers entering products purchased from or manufactured by manufacturers with 10 or more employees must demonstrate compliance with the lead free definition by obtaining third party certification by an American National Standards Institute (ANSI) accredited, third party certification body. Firms with fewer than 10 employees can use a third party certification body or self-certify that their products conform to the Safe Drinking Water Acts (SDWA) lead free requirements. This self-certification option also extends to custom fabricated products regardless of a manufacturers number of employees. This rule imposes a burden on states to enforce the statutory provisions in SDWA Section 1417(a)(1), which cross references updated statutory definition of lead free within the meaning of SDWA Section 1417(d) according to the 2011 Reduction of Lead in Drinking Water Act and the 2013 Community Fire Safety Act.

The latest form for Use of Lead Free Pipes, Fittings, Fixtures, Solder and Flux for Drinking Water (Renewal) expires 2028-01-31 and is listed under ICR 202312-2040-001.

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