LCR sampling protocols require water customers to collect fifth liter tap samples. Water collected in the fifth liter samples represents the water that has been sitting in a water service line outside of the house, whereas the first liter represents the water in contact with the faucet and interior plumbing.
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How to talk about lead programs with the public
As part of the Lead and Copper Rule Improvements (LCRI), water utilities are required to communicate with residents and businesses more than ever before about lead in drinking water. We’ve compiled four best practices to effectively communicate with customers.
Insight
Is your utility ready for the LCRI? Lessons from Illinois's early experience
Illinois utilities have been operating under stricter lead regulations since 2022, and Chicago's former water commissioner, Andrea Cheng, PhD, PE, shares lessons on navigating new sampling requirements, boosting resident engagement, and coordinating complex inventory efforts.

