City says tests found water distribution system free from asbestos (CHAT NEWS TODAY image)

By Brian Konrad

City conducted testing to obtain baseline results

Water test results show no asbestos fibres in Medicine Hat water system

Apr 24, 2023 | 9:52 AM

MEDICINE HAT — Following a recent report by CTV’s W5 program about the possible presence of asbestos in Medicine Hat’s drinking water, the city of Medicine Hat decided to get an independent report.

City staff collected samples from six approved sites on the distribution system on April 11, 2023 and submitted them to ALS Laboratory Group in Cincinnati, Ohio.

The results came back within 10 days, and show no detectable levels of asbestos in Medicine Hat’s drinking water.

“Though there is no regulatory requirement that we test for asbestos in drinking water, this was a practical step to alleviate any concerns our residents may have had,” said Brad Maynes, managing director of Energy and Infrastructure.

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In a release Maynes added that “these results should offer comfort to residents and confidence that Medicine Hat’s water distribution system meets or exceeds all regulations in delivering safe, clean drinking water to your homes and businesses.”

Pat Bohan, director of City Assets adds, “We monitor the condition of our water infrastructure closely and the A-C water mains in Medicine Hat are in excellent shape.”

At the end of 2022, about 32 per cent of underground water pipes in Medicine Hat are made from asbestos-cement.

The city of Medicine Hat says it conducts more than 19,000 tests each year, according to regulations set forth by Health Canada, Alberta Health, and through the Environmental Protection and Enhancement Act under Alberta Environment and Protected Areas.

The city also follows best practices outlined by the Canadian Water and Wastewater Association.

The City will not carry out further monitoring for asbestos until directed to do so by a regulatory body.