How long should records for lead and copper analysis be maintained?

For lead and copper analysis, records should be maintained for a period of 12 years. This requirement aligns with the regulations set forth by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) under the Lead and Copper Rule. Maintaining these records for 12 years ensures that water utilities have adequate documentation of compliance with testing and monitoring requirements, which is crucial in assessing the long-term trends in lead and copper levels in drinking water. This timeframe allows for historical data analysis, which can be essential for identifying patterns or issues in water quality and for planning future corrective actions or improvements. Additionally, this retention period ensures transparency and accountability in public health monitoring related to lead and copper exposure in the community.