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TCEQ Lead Testing in School and Child Care Program

taa-tceq-lead-testing-in-school-and-child-care-program_0.pdf324.83 KB
Date:  November 16, 2023
Subject: TCEQ Lead Testing in School and Child Care Program
Category: Public Health
Next Steps:  Complete the program enrollment form

 

Overview 

The Lead Testing in School and Child Care (LTSCC) Program is a state-wide initiative of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) to help school and childcare administrators reduce lead exposure in drinking water. Sampling and laboratory testing are the only ways to determine if lead is present in drinking water. This voluntary program helps safeguard children’s health by testing drinking water and taking action to reduce potential exposure to lead. All public schools and state-certified child care centers are eligible. Private schools are not eligible for the program. 

Program Benefits and Enrollment 

Many Texas school systems have already taken advantage of this program, and there is capacity to help more schools across the state. Enrollment in the LTSCC Program provides the following benefits:

  • Water Sample Collection and Testing – Water sample collection and testing are entirely free. All testing materials (pre-cleaned certified bottles, instructions, pre-paid shipping to an accredited lab) are provided. LTSCC Program field technicians can also be scheduled at the schools' convenience for on-site sample collection visits. 
  • Control Measures and Remediation – If lead is found in a facility’s drinking water, school systems have several options. TCEQ is making enhancements to the program and is close to providing control measures such as filtration devices at no cost to schools. TCEQ also expects to be able to cover the costs of water fixture replacement if this type of remediation is chosen. 
  • Program Design – This program is designed in alignment with Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) guidance. 
  • Support – Technical and Communications support are available daily. This includes extensive educational resources and instructions available in English and Spanish. 

To enroll in the program, please follow the instructions on the LTSCC Program Enrollment Form. 

Additional Supports and Questions 

For more information, please call (512) 957-0439 or email info@txleadtesting.org. You can also visit the LTSCC Program webpage for general program information. 

TCEQ is hosting an informational webinar about the program on December 6, 2023, from 3:00-3:30 pm (CST). Sign up for the December 6th webinar.