Ottawa families are facing some troubling news about the water their children drink at school. A report from the Canadian Environmental Law Association (CELA) has revealed that more than 100 samples of drinking water collected from taps inside Ottawa-Carleton District School Board (OCDSB) schools exceeded Ontario's maximum allowable lead concentration during the 2024-25 school year.
What the Report Found
The CELA analysis flagged numerous fixtures across OCDSB schools where lead levels in drinking water surpassed provincial thresholds. Lead contamination in drinking water is particularly concerning for children, as even low levels of exposure can affect neurological development, cognitive function, and behaviour. There is no known safe level of lead exposure for kids.
The contamination typically originates from aging plumbing infrastructure, older lead-containing pipes, solder, and fixtures that leach the metal into water, especially when it sits stagnant overnight or over weekends.
The Bigger Picture for OCDSB Schools
Many of Ottawa's public schools were built decades ago, when lead plumbing was standard. While Ontario requires boards to test water and report results, critics argue the province's action thresholds and remediation timelines have not been aggressive enough. CELA has long called for stricter rules and faster fixture replacements.
For Ottawa parents, the report is a reminder to ask questions: Has my child's school been tested? Were elevated results addressed? Are fountains and taps currently safe to use?
What Happens Next
When elevated lead levels are confirmed, school boards are required to take corrective action, typically flushing fixtures, installing filters, or replacing problem faucets and fountains. Parents and guardians can request testing data from their school board and ask for confirmation that remediation steps have been completed.
The OCDSB has not yet publicly responded to the specific findings in the CELA report as of publication. Residents can reach out to the board directly or contact their school's principal for the latest update on their specific building.
What You Can Do
If you're concerned about lead in your home's water as well, Ottawa Public Health offers resources on testing and reducing exposure. Simple steps like running the cold tap for 30 seconds before using water for drinking or cooking can significantly reduce lead intake from older plumbing.
This story is a developing one, expect more information from both OCDSB and city health officials in the coming days. In the meantime, it's reasonable to pack a water bottle from home for your kids until you have clarity on your school's specific status.
Source: Ottawa Citizen
