The use of plastic materials was identified as a substitute for metal pipe and components thatrelease lead into drinking water, but concerns were expressed with regard to the leaching oforganic contaminants such as endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) at drinking water fountainsin Seattle Public Schools. This paper summarizes current information pertaining to potentialrisks associated with leaching of organic contaminants from plastic piping materials used inpremise plumbing and storage containers for potable water supplies. Current knowledgeregarding EDCs, chemical additives in plastics (e.g., phthalates, phenolics, and organotins),environmental exposure, and other emerging contaminants in drinking water are discussed. Inaddition, safeguards that are currently in place for protecting human health (NSF/ANSIStandards for drinking water and food equipment) are considered. Results from this study wereused by Seattle Public Schools to help understand the relative risk of using plastic materials inplace of old end-use plumbing. This paper provides information to utilities that servecommunities with old school buildings. This paper also provides information to individuals whoare curious about current research and developments pertaining to the occurrence and impact ofendocrine disruptors in drinking water systems. Includes 58 references, table.
Keywords: Endocrine Disruptors; Water Contamination; Organics; Leaching; Risks; Seattle, Washington; Chemicals; Plastic Pipe; Public Health; Standards
