High lead levels found in many Ontario schools

A new report reveals high lead levels in drinking water at many Ontario schools, with some exceeding federal safety guidelines. Fisher Park Public School in Ottawa recorded lead levels as high as 567 parts per billion, significantly above the federal limit of 5 ppb. While the number of schools reporting lead exceedances has decreased, about half of Ontario's public schools have had at least one exceedance in the past five years. The province's safety guideline remains at 10 ppb, double the federal standard, raising concerns among experts and advocacy groups. The Canadian Environmental Lawyers Association urges the province to remove lead infrastructure in schools and improve transparency about lead exposure. Many schools still rely on outdated plumbing, and current regulations do not mandate the replacement of lead pipes.