rthk.hk - Instant NewsToday, 1:13 PM
A man uses an outside tap because of fears about lead contamination. Photo: RTHK
RTHK has found that some water pipe components and valves available at hardware stores do not come with any documentation and may contain lead.
Democratic Party lawmaker Helena Wong has said there are obvious loopholes within the existing Waterworks Ordinance. She has called on the government to establish a labelling system to help consumers make an informed decision.
Last month, excessive amounts of lead were found in water at Kai Ching, Kwai Luen, Lower Ngau Tau Kok and Wing Cheong public estates.
The Chief Executive, CY Leung, is establishing an independent commission to investigate the scandal.
Meanwhile the Health Secretary, Ko Wing-man, has said the government wants to expand its capacity for carrying out blood tests for residents who may have been affected by lead-contaminated water.
Authorities can now handle about 300 blood samples a week.
Dr Ko said the government may in future send samples to overseas laboratories to speed up the process.
Some 1,900 public housing tenants from the affected estates are lining up for blood tests.
http://rthk.hk/rthk/news/englishnews/20150802/news_20150802_56_1120829.htm
