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Danvers Residents Warned of Potential Lead & Copper Exposure After Water System Violation

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  //health-fitness.news-articles.net/content/2025/ .. opper-exposure-after-water-system-violation.html
  Published in Health and Fitness on Monday, December 29th 2025 at 12:17 GMT by Patch

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Danvers Residents Face Potential Lead & Copper Exposure After Water System Violation

Danvers, Massachusetts residents are being urged to take precautions after the town's Department of Public Works (DPW) announced a significant violation related to its drinking water system. The violation, stemming from issues with corrosion control during recent upgrades to the water treatment plant, has raised concerns about potential elevated levels of lead and copper leaching into household plumbing. This situation is prompting testing, public notification, and calls for increased vigilance among residents.

The Root of the Problem: Upgrades & Corrosion Control Failure

The trouble began as part of a larger effort to improve Danvers' water treatment facility. Recognizing the need for modernization, the town undertook an upgrade project aimed at enhancing the system’s ability to remove contaminants and meet evolving regulatory standards. A key component of this process involves maintaining proper corrosion control within the distribution network – essentially preventing pipes from degrading and releasing metals like lead and copper into the drinking water.

According to the DPW, during recent changes implemented as part of these upgrades, the optimal level of phosphate (used as a corrosion inhibitor) was inadvertently disrupted. This disruption led to increased corrosivity in the water, meaning it's more likely to react with and dissolve metals present in older plumbing systems. While Danvers’ water supply itself is not contaminated with lead or copper at the source, these metals are frequently found in service lines (pipes connecting the municipal water main to individual homes) and within household plumbing fixtures, particularly in older properties built before 1986 when lead solder was commonly used.

The Violation & Regulatory Response

The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) formally notified Danvers of the violation on October 27th, 2023. The DEP mandates that water systems maintain a certain level of corrosion control to ensure compliance with federal and state regulations designed to protect public health. Failure to do so can trigger penalties and requires immediate corrective action.

The DPW has acknowledged the violation and is working diligently to restore optimal corrosion control levels. They have increased phosphate dosing at the treatment plant and are continuously monitoring water quality parameters. The town's website now features a dedicated page with information about the violation, including FAQs and resources for residents (see [ https://www.danversma.gov/316/Water-System-Violation ]).

Potential Health Risks & Resident Precautions

Lead is a particularly concerning contaminant, especially for young children and pregnant women. Even low levels of lead exposure can cause developmental problems in children, including learning disabilities and behavioral issues. In adults, lead exposure can contribute to high blood pressure, kidney problems, and reproductive issues. Copper, while generally less toxic than lead, can also pose health risks at elevated concentrations, causing gastrointestinal distress and potentially liver damage.

To mitigate potential risk, the DPW is strongly advising residents to flush their taps for several minutes before using water for drinking or cooking, especially in the morning or after periods of inactivity. This flushing process helps clear out any stagnant water that may have accumulated in pipes and drawn metals from them. Boiling water is not recommended as it concentrates lead and copper.

Testing & Future Actions

The DPW has initiated a comprehensive testing program to assess the extent of potential lead and copper contamination within the distribution system and at individual homes. This includes collecting samples from various locations throughout Danvers, both in the municipal pipes and at consumer taps. Results are expected to be available in the coming weeks and will inform further corrective actions.

The town is also exploring options for offering free or subsidized lead testing kits to residents, particularly those living in older homes with known plumbing vulnerabilities. The DPW has stated its commitment to transparency and will continue to provide updates on the situation through its website, social media channels, and community meetings. They are working closely with the DEP to ensure a swift and effective resolution to this issue.

Community Concerns & Looking Ahead

The news of the violation has understandably caused concern among Danvers residents. While officials emphasize that the water source itself is safe, the potential for lead and copper contamination within individual homes highlights the ongoing challenges associated with aging infrastructure. This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of regular system maintenance, robust corrosion control measures, and proactive communication with the public regarding drinking water quality. The situation underscores the need for continued investment in water infrastructure upgrades to ensure safe and reliable drinking water for all residents of Danvers.

Note: I have included links to relevant resources as mentioned in the original article. This summary aims to be comprehensive, but it is always advisable to consult official sources (the DPW website and DEP communications) for the most up-to-date information.