Excessive lead has been found in the water supply for Lower Ngau Tau Kok Estate.
Secretary for Transport & Housing Prof Anthony Cheung announced the findings today, saying six water samples taken from the estate exceeded the World Health Organisation lead limit.
Five of the samples were taken from units and one was from a security post.
A quick test conducted by the Government Laboratory suggested the lead was from soldering materials.
The Housing Department will contact the estate's main contractor, provide bottled water for any residents at high risk, provide temporary water supplies, set up water outlets on the ground floor, and conduct a seminar tonight to give residents the latest information.
Secretary for Food & Health Dr Ko Wing-man said 23 residents of Kai Ching Estate have been found to have lead levels in their blood that were slightly higher than the international standard.
They include 17 children, a 15-year-old, four lactating mothers and a pregnant woman.
Dr Ko said the children will be sent for developmental checks and obstetricians will examine the pregnant woman.
