The Lead and Copper Rule Improvements (LCRI) push utilities to look past just lead service line replacements. Routine maintenance and construction can create temporary lead exposure too, because these activities disturb deposits that accumulate inside lead service lines. Your utility’s meter replacements, valve operations, service line reconnections, test pits and pressure changes can all dislodge lead particles and raise lead levels at the tap.
 

Even brief disturbances can affect water quality, so the LCRI requires your utility to notify customers when work impacts a lead service line, a galvanized line requiring replacement (GRR) or a line with unknown material status. The goal is to make sure customers understand the potential risk and know how to properly protect themselves.

• Standard disturbances call for customer notification and flushing instructions to clear any dislodged particles from household plumbing
• More invasive work, like cutting, disconnecting, or replacing fittings on a service line triggers extra protections like lead-certified filters and replacement cartridges

How to use this guide: This tool is for water utility staff responsible for operations, compliance, engineering or customer notification decisions under the LCRI. Use this tool any time work may have disturbed a service line in a non-replacement scenario. The LCRI defines a separate protocol for service line replacement. 

The tool specifies:

• If notification is required
• Who must be notified
• What materials must be provided
• When notification must occur