What preventive measure can reduce lead leaching into drinking water?

Gain expertise for the AWWA Water Treatment Operator certification. Use flashcards and multiple-choice questions with hints and explanations. Empower your knowledge and ace the exam!

Using plastic piping materials is a preventive measure that can effectively reduce lead leaching into drinking water because plastic pipes, such as those made from PVC or PEX, do not contain lead. Traditional plumbing systems often utilized lead pipes or lead solder, which can release lead into the water supply, especially if the water is slightly acidic or has low mineral content. Transitioning to non-lead materials minimizes the risk of lead contamination since these materials lack lead entirely.

The other options, while they may serve useful purposes in water treatment or safety, do not specifically address the issue of lead leaching. Regular chlorination helps maintain the microbial quality of water but doesn't prevent lead from leaching from existing plumbing materials. Boiling water can kill pathogens but does not remove lead contaminants. Using chemical additives may help in certain scenarios, but they might not be specifically designed to seal lead pipes or might not be effective in lead leaching prevention. Therefore, the adoption of plastic piping is a direct and effective method to mitigate lead exposure from plumbing systems.

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