What material is frequently used for underground plumbing installations that poses a risk of poisoning?

Lead pipes are frequently used in older underground plumbing installations and pose a significant risk of poisoning due to their ability to leach lead into drinking water. Lead is a toxic metal that can cause serious health issues, particularly in children, including developmental delays, learning difficulties, and various physical ailments. The use of lead in plumbing dates back centuries, but awareness of its dangers has led to a decline in its use and regulations prohibiting lead plumbing in newer constructions.

While other materials like copper, steel, and plastic are common in plumbing, they do not carry the same risk of lead poisoning. Copper has its own potential issues, like corrosion, but it does not leach harmful substances at the levels lead does. Steel pipes are often galvanized, which can lead to rust but not to toxic contamination like lead. Plastic pipes, such as PVC, are generally considered safe and non-toxic for drinking water systems. Therefore, lead's unique toxic properties make it the material of concern regarding health risks in underground plumbing installations.