Pittsburgh Water announced a historic milestone this week, saying that they have reached a historic low in lead levels in water. 

According to Pittsburgh Water, the most recent round of testing certified a lead level of 2.0 parts per billion, which is the lowest level ever recorded in the city. 

"It's good news for our customers," CEO Will Pickering said. "I'm extremely proud of our team. This accomplishment comes admittedly in a failure from the organization to treat the drinking water effectively."

The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection certified the most recent test, which was conducted in accordance with the United States Environmental Protection Agency's Lead and Cooper Rule Revisions. This result is well below the 15.0 parts per billion federal action level set by the EPA. 

"Which demonstrates we're treating the water very effectively. ... It's been a years-long process," Pickering said.

In 2019, Pittsburgh added the food-grade additive orthophosphate, which forms a protective barrier that minimizes the risk for lead to enter tap water, including in homes that still have lead service lines. 

Pittsburgh's test took samples from homes that still have lead service lines, which Pittsburgh Water said helped provide a clear picture of the system's performance in high-risk areas. 

Pittsburgh Water has replaced more than 13,500 public lead service lines and more than 10,000 private ones at no direct cost to ratepayers. Residents can learn more about lead in drinking water, request lead testing kits, and find resources on the Pittsburgh Water website at this link.