How much lead is in Pawtucket water?

The maximum detected level of lead in Pawtucket water is 2 ppb. The EPA limit is 15 ppb (action level). See the ZIP code table above for area-specific levels.

Detected Lead

Lead in Pawtucket, RI Drinking Water

Q: Is lead in Pawtucket water safe?

Lead was detected in Pawtucket water at 2 ppb, below the EPA limit of 15 ppb (action level). Check ZIP-level data on this page for your specific area.

Lead data for Pawtucket, Rhode Island · 98,130 residents · 3 ZIP codes

EPA records show Lead detections in Pawtucket, Rhode Island water samples.

2 ppb

Max Level Detected

2 ppb

Average Level

15 ppb (action level)

EPA action level

High

Health Risk

Reverse Osmosis or NSF 53 Carbon Block

Best Filter Method

Data: EPA SDWIS, CCR Reports, ECHO Last verified: 2026-05-14

Lead in Pawtucket Tap Water

Lead has been detected in Pawtucket, Rhode Island drinking water at a maximum level of 2 ppb — below the EPA action level of 15 ppb (action level).

This analysis covers 98,130 residents across 3 ZIP codes in Pawtucket.

Pawtucket's overall water quality grade is B (81/100).

Is Lead in Pawtucket Water Safe?

Lead was detected in Pawtucket water but currently falls within EPA limits. However, some health organizations argue the EPA action level may not be protective enough — the CDC states there is no safe level of lead for children.

If you are concerned, a reverse osmosis or nsf 53 carbon block filter can reduce lead levels further.

Lead Levels by ZIP Code

ZIP Code	Lead Level	EPA Limit	Status
02860	2 ppb	15 ppb (action level)	OK
02861	2 ppb	15 ppb (action level)	OK
02862	2 ppb	15 ppb (action level)	OK

Average lead level across Pawtucket: 2 ppb

Health Effects of Lead

Brain development delays and reduced IQ in children
Behavioral problems and learning disabilities
High blood pressure and kidney damage in adults
Increased risk of premature birth in pregnant women

Health risk severity: High. Governed by the Lead and Copper Rule Revisions (LCRR/LCRI).

How Lead Gets Into Drinking Water

Corrosion of lead service lines (pipes connecting water main to home)
Lead solder in copper plumbing joints (pre-1986 homes)
Brass fixtures and faucets manufactured before 2014
Stagnant water that sits in lead-containing pipes overnight

What to Do About Lead in Pawtucket Water

Install an NSF 53 or NSF 58 certified filter at kitchen sink
Run cold water for 30 seconds before using for drinking or cooking
Use cold water only for cooking and preparing formula
Consider whole-home reverse osmosis if lead service line is present

Look for filters certified under NSF 53 / NSF 58 for lead removal.

Home → Contaminants → Lead → Rhode Island → Pawtucket