The water we drink contains traces of numerous substances and as such has a multitude of strict limits placed on it, controlling what substances enter our drinking water and how much of these substances get through to us. However, one of these limits is due to change, and could cause some severe complications for the unaware in the world of plumbing. Lead is used in a number of ways in the plumbing industry. It is used in the manufacturing process of multiple fittings and pipes, including brass, copper and some plastics. As the water passes through these pipes, they can degrade the quality of the water, thus adding lead to the supply. The limit on the amount of Lead in our water supply currently stands at 25 micrograms per litre of water. As of December 2013, this limit is being cut down to a much smaller 10 micrograms per litre. Principal Science Officer for the Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering (CIPHE), John Griggs, is anxious that this legislation may trap some of the manufacturers that prodce these pipes and fittings. He warns: "Manufacturers and suppliers of plumbing materials need to be aware of the issue and action may need to be taken to ensure that their products meet all the relevant UK and European Legislation. Installers need to be conversant with the facts and not do anything that impacts upon the quality of the supplied water." There are certain health risks that follow lead, relating to the way it can build up in the body. Because they are still developing, and therefore have growing organs and lower body masses, infants and children are most vulnerable to these risks, which can have an effect on mental development and attribute to behavioural issues. John Griggs would be very interested to hear from manufacturers involved with pipes and fittings to find out what they have done to reduce levels of lead in their products. He can be contacted on email at johng@ciphe.org.uk. Remember Ladies and Gentlemen, if you wish to adorn these pipes and fittings with only the most fantastic of kitchen and bathroom sinks and taps, there is only one place to look, sinks.co.uk.