Detroit public schools shut off all drinking water after tests show lead & copper contamination

Over half the public schools in Detroit have tested positive for high levels of lead and copper after their drinking water was inspected over safety concerns.

According to the Detroit Public Schools Community District, elevated levels of lead and copper were found in the water of 57 schools.

They are still waiting for the results for 27 more schools.

RT reports: Michigan’s largest school district initiated the widespread tests after a previous examination last year uncovered high elevations of lead and/or copper in 16 of 24 schools. Drinking water was turned off in the affected schools and water coolers and bottled water was supplied.

“This (testing) was not required by federal, state, or city law,” the DPSCD said. “This testing, unlike the previous testing in 2016, evaluated all water sources from sinks to drinking fountains.”