During the spring 2016 semester, prompted by the national focus on lead levels in drinking water, MCC voluntarily performed lead testing of water drawn from drinking fountains and sinks throughout its campuses. Sampling was conducted at the Brighton Campus, Applied Technologies Center and Damon City Campus (performed by Winn Companies). Being a newer building, the Public Safety Training Facility does not present the high risk of lead and was not included in the water testing.
While the majority of water sources were found to be below the
Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) recommended level for lead, elevated lead levels were found in Buildings 5, 7 and 8. Considering the older age of these buildings, it is not unusual that elevated levels were found. Commonly they are due to older fixtures or lead solder on the joints of water pipes.
While lead levels of the affected fixtures at MCC do not pose an immediate health danger, the College is committed to remaining proactive and has taken necessary precautions. The identified water fountains are now offline and water coolers have been provided on floors without access to a fountain. They can be found near the elevators in Buildings 5 and 8 and in designated labs in Building 7. Employees and students are reminded to use the sinks in Buildings 5, 7 and 8 for handwashing only.