However, this question is subjective
and might be biased due to inaccurate or incomplete
knowledge. For example, some administrators might be unaware
of water-quality issues, such as elevated lead levels,
and therefore these data are more reflective of the respondents’
awareness of water quality than actual objectively
measured water quality. Although no school characteristics
were significantly associated with awareness of water-quality
problems (Table 3), it is possible that older facilities could be
more prone to elevated lead levels. Unfortunately, the current
data did not include measures of the age of the school facility,
but technical assistance efforts in schools with water-quality
problems—and, perhaps, in older buildings in particular—
might require alternative solutions, such as the use of water
dispensers or pitchers, rather than relying on fountains.
Although the maintenance of drinking fountains, including
ensuring cleanliness and water quality, typically falls under
the responsibility of school facilities management personnel
and/or school administrators, school nutrition staff can assist
in maintaining clean, safe water sources by collaborating
with environmental health professionals and other school
staff on these issues.