What is one common method for testing lead levels in drinking water?

Collecting samples and sending them to a laboratory is a common method for testing lead levels in drinking water because it ensures precise and reliable results. This process typically involves following specific protocols to avoid contamination and ensure that samples are representative of the water source. Laboratories can then use advanced techniques, such as inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) or atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS), to accurately quantify the lead concentration.

While colorimetric testing could theoretically be deployed in some scenarios for lead detection, it is generally less reliable than laboratory analysis because it can be subject to interference from other substances present in the water. Techniques like smelling the water or using a pH meter are not valid methods for detecting lead levels, as these do not provide any information regarding chemical composition or metal concentrations. Thus, laboratory testing remains the most trusted approach for ensuring water quality and safety concerning lead contamination.