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Daily flushes of the plumbing have been ordered at N.J. Macpherson School by the Office of the Chief Public Health officer after five water fixtures recently tested at higher than safe levels of lead.

"All 22 sinks and fountains used for drinking or food preparation at the school were tested," stated Department of Education, Culture and Employment communications manager Agata Gutkowska on Aug. 23. "Of those, five fixtures showed Tier Two lead levels above Health CanadaSA国际影视传媒檚 guideline of five micrograms per litre.

"Tier Two samples are collected after flushing the tap for five minutes, followed by 30 minutes of stagnation. One additional result is still pending. However, in the interest of protecting public health, that site is being treated as impacted," she noted.

Gutkowska added that none of the fixtures that tested high for lead concentrations were drinking fountains or water bottle refill stations.

Blood samples from 26 individuals at William McDonald School, where lead levels were also found to be elevated, have come back showing normal lead concentrations, according to the GNWT news release. Gutkowska added that there is currently no concern about the drinking water in Yellowknife generally, as the water is regularly tested to meet safety standards.

Testing of water in all NWT schools is expected to roll out "as soon as possible" with schools prioritized based on the building's age, the age of the students, existing water quality data and random sampling.

"If you are concerned about elevated lead levels, please contact Primary Care by completing the callback request form and select 'YK Primary Care Regarding Public Health Order,'" said Gutkowska. "The Northwest Territories Health and Social Services Authority continues efforts to ensure specific staff are assigned to manage these needs and streamline the process. By completing the callback request form, primary care assistants can more efficiently manage scheduling and clinic capacity.

"They will follow up with you directly to book an appointment where your bloodwork can be done during the same visit, if required, eliminating the need for separate trips to primary care and the lab, as is usually required."