Book Waterontap Full
Book Waterontap Full
Book Waterontap Full
Table of Contents
Chapter Page No.
1. A Consumers Guide To The Nations Drinking Water. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 2. How Safe Is My Drinking Water? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 3. Where Does My Drinking Water Come From And How Is It Treated?. . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 4. How Do We Use Drinking Water In Our Homes?. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 5. Whats Being Done To Improve Water Security?. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 6. What Can I Do If There Is A Problem With My Drinking Water?. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 7. How Safe Is The Drinking Water In My Household Well?. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 8. What You Can Do To Protect Your Drinking Water. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Appendix A: National Primary Drinking Water Standards as of 10/03. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Appendix B: References. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Appendix C: Sources of Additional Information. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Appendix D: Glossary. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Consumers have many questions about their drinking water. How safe is my drinking water? What is being done to improve security of public water systems? Where does my drinking water come from, and how is it treated? Do private wells receive the same protection as public water systems? What can I do to help protect my drinking water?
www.epa.gov/safewater
www.epa.gov/safewater/ccr
Establishes a federal-state partnership for regulation enforcement Includes provisions specifically designed to protect underground sources of drinking water - www.epa.gov/safewater/uic Requires disinfection of surface water supplies, except those with pristine, protected sources Establishes a multi-billion-dollar state revolving loan fund for water system upgrades -
www.epa.gov/safewater/dwsrf
Requires an assessment of the vulnerability of all drinking water sources to contamination -
www.epa.gov/safewater/protect
Drinking Water: Past, Present, and Future EPA-816-F-00-002
www.epa.gov/safewater
such as those at schools, campgrounds, factories, and restaurants. Private water supplies, such as household wells that serve one or a few homes, are not regulated by EPA. For information on household wells, see How Safe Is The Drinking Water In My Household Well? on page 18 of this booklet.
in the drinking water, possible health effects, and the waters source. Some Consumer Confidence Reports are available at www.epa.gov/safewater/dwinfo.htm. Water suppliers must promptly inform you if your water has become contaminated by something that can cause immediate illness. Water suppliers have 24 hours to inform their customers of violations of EPA standards that have the potential to have serious adverse effects on human health as a result of short-term exposure. If such a violation occurs, the water system will announce it through the media, and must provide information about the potential adverse effects on human health, steps the system is taking to correct the violation, and the need to use alternative water supplies (such as boiled or bottled water) until the problem is corrected. Systems will inform customers about violations of less immediate concern in the first water bill sent after the violation, in a Consumer Confidence Report, or by mail within a year. In 1998, states began compiling information on individual systems, so you can evaluate the overall quality of drinking water in your state. Additionally, EPA must compile and summarize the state reports into an annual report on the condition of the nations drinking water. To view the most recent annual report, see www.epa.gov/safewater/annual.
of their drinking water.4 Although failure to monitor does not necessarily suggest safety problems, conducting the required reporting is crucial to ensure that problems will be detected. Consumers can help make sure certain monitoring and reporting requirements are met by first contacting their state drinking water agency to determine if their water supplier is in compliance. If the water system is not meeting the requirements, consumers can work with local and state officials and the water supplier to make sure the required monitoring and reporting occurs. 4 A network of government agencies monitor tap water suppliers and enforce drinking water standards to ensure the safety of public water supplies. These agencies include EPA, state departments of health and environment, and local public health departments.
Reported Community Water Systems Violating Maximum Contaminant Levels or Treatment Standards in FY 2002
District of Columbia
0% - 6% of Systems
6% - 11% of Systems
11+% of Systems
Nevertheless, problems with local drinking water can, and do, occur.
www.epa.gov/safewater
examples are microbial contamination, chemical contamination from fertilizers, and lead contamination.
Excessive levels of nitrates can cause blue baby syndrome, which can be fatal without immediate medical attention.
Chemical Contamination From Fertilizers:
Nitrate, a chemical most commonly used as a fertilizer, poses an immediate threat to infants when it is found in drinking water at levels above the national standard. Nitrates are converted to nitrites in the intestines. Once absorbed into the bloodstream, nitrites prevent hemoglobin from transporting oxygen. (Older children have an enzyme that restores hemoglobin.) Excessive levels can cause blue baby syndrome, which can be fatal without immediate medical attention. Infants most at risk for blue baby syndrome are those who are already sick, and while they are sick, consume food that is high in nitrates or drink water or formula mixed with water that is high in nitrates. Avoid using water with high nitrate levels for drinking. This is especially important for infants and young children, nursing mothers, pregnant women and certain elderly people. 5
Microbial Contamination:
The potential for health problems from microbialcontaminated drinking water is demonstrated by localized outbreaks of waterborne disease. Many of these outbreaks have been linked to contamination by bacteria or viruses, probably from human or animal wastes. For example, in 1999 and 2000, there were 39 reported disease outbreaks associated with drinking water, some of which were linked to public drinking water supplies.5 Certain pathogens (disease-causing microorganisms), such as Cryptosporidium, may occasionally pass through water filtration and disinfection processes in numbers high enough to cause health problems, particularly in vulnerable members of the population. Cryptosporidium causes the gastrointestinal disease, cryptosporidiosis, and can cause serious, sometimes fatal, symptoms, especially among sensitive members of the population. (See box on Sensitive Subpopulations on page 1.) A serious outbreak of cryptosporidiosis occurred in 1993 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, causing more than 400,000 persons to be infected with the disease, and resulting in at least 50 deaths. This was the largest recorded outbreak of waterborne disease in United States history.6
www.epa.gov/safewater
Lead Contamination:
Lead, a metal found in natural deposits, is commonly used in household plumbing materials and water service lines. The greatest exposure to lead is swallowing lead paint chips or breathing in lead dust. But lead in drinking water can also cause a variety of adverse health effects. In babies and children, exposure to lead in drinking water above the action level of lead (0.015 milligram per liter) can result in delays in physical and mental development, along with slight deficits in attention span and learning abilities. Adults who drink this water over many years could develop kidney problems or high blood pressure. Lead is rarely found in source water, but enters tap water through corrosion of plumbing materials. Very old and poorly maintained homes may be more likely to have lead pipes, joints, and solder. However, new homes are also at risk: pipes legally considered to be lead-free may contain up to eight percent lead. These pipes can leach significant amounts of lead in the water for the first several months after their installation. For more information on lead contamination, see www.epa.gov/safewater/contaminants/dw_contamfs/lead.html.
For more information on drinking water contaminants that are regulated by EPA, see Appendix A, or visit
www.epa.gov/safewater/mcl.html.
Factoids: Drinking Water & Ground Water Statistics for 2002, 2003. Community Water Systems Survey 2000, Volume I, 2001. The Clean Water and Drinking Water Infrastructure Gap Analysis, EPA 816-R-02-020. Factoids: Drinking Water and Ground Water Statistics for 2001, EPA 816-K-02-004. Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report: Surveillance for Waterborne Disease Outbreaks, United States 1999-2000, 2002. 25 Years of the Safe Drinking Water Act, 1999.
www.epa.gov/safewater
Sedimentation: The flocculated particles then settle naturally out of the water. Filtration: Many water treatment facilities use filtration to remove all particles from the water. Those particles
include clays and silts, natural organic matter, precipitates from other treatment processes in the facility, iron and manganese, and microorganisms. Filtration clarifies the water and enhances the effectiveness of disinfection.
Lake or Reservoir
Coagulation removes dirt and other particles suspended in water. Alum and other chemicals are added to water to form tiny sticky particles called floc which attract the dirt particles. The combined weight of the dirt and the alum (floc) become heavy enough to sink to the bottom during sedimentation.
Sedimentation: The heavy particles (floc) settle to the bottom and the clear water moves to filtration.
Disinfection: A small amount of chlorine is added or some other disinfection method is used to kill any bacteria or microorganisms that may be in the water.
Storage: Water is placed in a closed tank or reservoir for disinfection to take place. The water then flows through pipes to homes and businesses in the community.
Filtration: The water passes through filters, some made of layers of sand, gravel, and charcoal that help remove even smaller particles.
www.epa.gov/safewater
Disinfection: Disinfection of drinking water is considered to be one of the major public health advances of the 20th century. Water is often disinfected before it enters the distribution system to ensure that dangerous microbial contaminants are killed. Chlorine, chlorinates, or chlorine dioxides are most often used because they are very effective disinfectants, and residual concentrations can be maintained in the water system.
Disinfection Byproducts
Disinfection of drinking water is one of the major public health advances of the 20th century. However, sometimes the disinfec tants themselves can react with naturally occurring materials in the water to form unintended byproducts, which may pose health risks. EPA recognizes the importance of removing microbial contaminants while simultaneously protecting the public from disinfection byproducts, and has developed regulations to limit the presence of these byproducts. For more information, see www.epa.gov/safewater/mdbp.html.
1 2
Protect Your Drinking Water, 2002. Congressional Budget Office Study: Future Investment in Drinking Water & Wastewater Infrastructure, 2002.
Water passes through charcoal, sand, and gravel layers in a water systems filtration tank.
www.epa.gov/safewater
How Much Water Do Homes In The U.S. Use Compared To Other Countries?
Americans use much more water each day than individuals in both developed and undeveloped countries: For example, the average European uses 53 gallons; the average Sub-Saharan citizen, 3-5 gallons.4 Water efficiency plays an important role in protecting water sources and improving water quality. By using water wisely, we can save money and help the environment. Water efficiency means using less water to provide the same benefit. Using water-saving techniques could save you hundreds of dollars each year, while also reducing the amount of pollutants entering our waterways.
Source: Van Der Leeden, F., F. L. Troise, and D. K. Todd. The Water Encyclopedia. Lewis Publishers, Inc. Second Edition, 1990.
The average American uses about 90 gallons of water each day in the home, and each American household uses approximately 107,000 gallons of water each year.1 For the most part, we use water treated to meet drinking water standards to flush toilets, water lawns, and wash dishes, clothes, and cars. In fact, 50-70 percent of home water is used for watering lawns and gardens.2 Nearly 14 percent of the water a typical homeowner pays for is never even usedit leaks down the drain.3
Water utilities forecast water source availability, growth in population, and water demand to ensure adequate future water supplies during normal conditions, as well as periods of drought. When water shortages are predicted or experienced, water utilities have many options for conserving water. Temporary cutbacks or permanent operating adjustments can help conserve water. Temporary cutbacks may include: Reduction of system-wide operating pressure, and Water use bans, restrictions, and rationing.
www.epa.gov/safewater
Permanent conservation measures may include: Subsidizing use of water-efficient faucets, toilets, and showerheads, Public education and voluntary use reduction, Billing practices that impose higher rates for higher amounts of water use, Building codes that require water-efficient fixtures and appliances, Leak detection surveys and meter testing, repair, and replacement, and Reduction in use and increase in recycling of industrial water.
trols. Evaluation of industrial plant data may show that a particular process or manufacturing step uses the most water or causes the greatest contamination. Such areas can be targeted for water conservation. Also, water that is contaminated by one process may be usable in other plant processes that do not require high-quality water.
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Low-Water Use Toilets (or Plastic Bottles or Water Dams in Toilet Reservoir), 18 percent
Low-Flow Aerators on Faucets (or Replacement Faucets), 2 percent Low-Water Use Dishwasher, 4 percent
Source: Corbitt, Robert A. Standard Handbook of Environmental Engineering. McGraw-Hill, Inc. 1989.
www.epa.gov/safewater
Stop Leaks. Replace Old Toilets with models that use 1.6 gallons or less per flush. Replace Old Clothes Washers with EPA Energy Star certified models. Plant the Right Kind of Garden that requires less water. Provide Only the Water Plants Need.
For more information on ways to conserve water in the home, see www.epa.gov/water/waterefficiency.html or
www.h2ouse.org.
1 2 3 4 5 6
Water Trivia Facts, EPA 80-F-95-001. AWWA Stats on Tap. Using Water Wisely in the Home, 2002. The Use of Water Today, World Water Council. Investing in Americas Water Infrastructure, 2002. Using Water Wisely in the Home, 2002.
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Nearly 14 percent of the water a typical homeowner pays for is never even used it leaks down the drain.
Using Water Wisely in the Home, 2002
www.epa.gov/safewater
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wishing to disrupt and cause harm to your community water supplies or wastewater facilities. Because utilities are often located in isolated areas, drinking water sources and wastewater collection systems may cover large areas that are difficult to secure and patrol. Residents can be educated to notice and report any suspicious activity in and around local water utilities. Any residents interested in protecting their water resources and community as a whole can join together with law enforcement, neighborhood watch groups, water suppliers, wastewater operators, and other local public health officials. If you witness suspicious activities, report them to your local law enforcement authorities. Examples of suspicious activity might include: People climbing or cutting a utility fence
www.epa.gov/safewater
Unidentified truck or car parked or loitering near waterway or facilities for no apparent reason Suspicious opening or tampering with manhole covers, fire hydrants, buildings, or equipment
Do not confront strangers. Instead report suspicious activities to local authorities. When reporting an incident: State the nature of the incident Identify yourself and your location Identify location of activity Describe any vehicle involved (color, make, model, plate number) Describe the participants (how many, sex, race, color of hair, height, weight, clothing)
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People climbing or on top of water tanks People photographing or videotaping utility facilities, structures or equipment Strangers hanging around locks or gates
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www.epa.gov/safewater
TREATMENT DEVICE
Activated Carbon Filter
(includes mixed media that remove heavy metals)
TREATMENT LIMITATIONS
Is efficient in removing metals such as lead and copper Does not remove nitrate, bacteria or dissolved minerals
Removes minerals, particularly calcium and magnesium that make water hard Some designs remove radium and barium
If water has oxidized iron or iron bacteria, the ion-exchange resin will become coated or clogged and lose its softening ability
Removes fluoride
16
Reverse Osmosis Unit
Removes nitrates, sodium, other dissolved inorganics and organic compounds Removes foul tastes, smells or colors (with carbon) May also reduce the level of some pesticides, dioxins and chloroform and petrochemicals Does not remove all inorganic and organic contaminants
Distillation Unit
Removes nitrates, bacteria, sodium, hardness, dissolved solids, most organic compounds, heavy metals, and radionucleides Kills bacteria
Does not remove some volatile organic contaminants, certain pesticides and volatile solvents Bacteria may recolonize on the cooling coils during inactive periods
Activated carbon filters adsorb organic contaminants that cause taste and odor problems. Depending on their design, some units can remove chlorination byproducts, some cleaning solvents, and pesticides. To maintain the effectiveness of these units, the carbon canisters must be replaced periodically. Activated carbon filters are efficient in removing metals such as lead and copper if they are designed to absorb or remove lead. Because ion exchange units can be used to remove minerals from your water, particularly calcium and magnesium, they are sold for water softening. Some ion exchange softening units remove radium and barium from water. Ion exchange systems that employ activated alumina are used to remove fluoride and
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arsenate from water. These units must be regenerated periodically with salt. Reverse osmosis treatment units generally remove a more diverse list of contaminants than other systems. They can remove nitrates, sodium, other dissolved inorganics, and organic compounds. Distillation units boil water and condense the resulting steam to create distilled water. Depending on their design, some of these units may allow vaporized organic contaminants to condense back into the product water, thus minimizing the removal of organics. You may choose to boil your water to remove microbial contaminants. Keep in mind that boiling reduces
Safe Drinking Water Hotline: 800-426-4791
the volume of water by about 20 percent, thus concentrating those contaminants not affected by the temperature of boiling water, such as nitrates and
pesticides. For more information on boiling water, see page 5 of this booklet. No one unit can remove everything. Have your water tested by a certified laboratory prior to purchasing any device. Do not rely on the tests conducted by salespeople that want to sell you their product.
This treatment device is for point of use (POU). For more information on different types of devices contact NSF International, Underwriters Laboratory, or the Water Quality Association See Appendix C for contact information.
www.epa.gov/safewater
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Understanding and spotting possible pollution sources is the first step to safeguarding your drinking water. If your drinking water comes from a well, you may also have a septic system. Septic systems and other on-site wastewater disposal systems are major potential sources of contamination of private water supplies if they are poorly maintained or located improperly, or if they are used for disposal of toxic chemicals. Information on septic systems is available from local health departments, state agencies, and the National Small Flows Clearinghouse (www.epa.gov/owm/ mab/smcomm/nsfc.htm) at (800) 624-8301. A septic system design manual and guidance on system maintenance are available from EPA (www.epa.gov/ OW-OWM.html/mtb/decent/homeowner.htm).
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www.epa.gov/safewater
Set A Regular Maintenance Schedule For Your Well And Your Septic System
Proper well and septic system construction and continued maintenance are keys to the safety of your water supply. Your state water well and septic system contractor licensing agency, local health department, or local public water system professional can provide information on well construction. Make certain your contractors are licensed by the state, if required, or certified by the National Ground Water Association. Maintain your well, fixing problems before they reach crisis levels, and keep up-to-date records of well installation and repairs, as well as plumbing and water costs. Protect your own well area from contamination.
on page 16. If you connect to a public water system, remember to close your well properly.
20
www.epa.gov/safewater
Be Observant!
Look around your watershed and look for announcements in the local media about activities that may pollute your drinking water. Form and operate a citizens watch network within your community to communicate regularly with law enforcement, your public water supplier and wastewater operator. Communication is key to a safer community! Be alert. Get to know your water/wastewater utilities, their vehicles, routines and their personnel. Become aware of your surroundings. This will help you to recognize suspicious activity as opposed to normal daily activities.
Be Involved!
EPA activities to protect drinking water include setting drinking water standards and overseeing the work of states that enforce federal standardsor stricter ones set by the individual state. EPA holds many public meetings on issues ranging from proposed drinking water standards to the development of databases. You can also comment on proposed drafts of other upcoming EPA documents. A list of public meetings and regulations open for comment can be found at www.epa.gov/safewater/pubinput/html.
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Be Informed!
Read the annual Consumer Confidence Report provided by your water supplier. Some Consumer Confidence Reports are available at www.epa.gov/ safewater/dwinfo.htm. Use information from your states Source Water Assessment to learn about potential threats to your water source. If you are one of the 15 percent of Americans who uses a private source of drinking watersuch as a well, cistern, or springfind out what activities are taking place in your watershed that may impact your drinking water; talk to local experts/ test your water periodically; and maintain your well properly. Find out if the Clean Water Act standards for your drinking water source are intended to protect water for drinking, in addition to fishing and swimming.
www.epa.gov/safewater
Dont Contaminate!
Reduce paved areas: use permeable surfaces that allow rain to soak through, not run off. Reduce or eliminate pesticide application: test your soil before applying chemicals, and use plants that require little or no water, pesticides, or fertilizers. Reduce the amount of trash you create: reuse and recycle. 22 If you see any suspicious activities in or around your water supply, please notify local authorities or call 9-1-1 immediately to report the incident. Recycle used oil: 1 quart of oil can contaminate 2 million gallons of drinking watertake your used oil and antifreeze to a service station or recycling center. Take the bus instead of your car one day a week: you could prevent 33 pounds of carbon dioxide emissions each day. Keep pollutants away from boat marinas and waterways: keep boat motors well-tuned to prevent leaks, select nontoxic cleaning products and use a drop cloth, and clean and maintain boats away from the water. For more information on how you can help protect your local drinking water source, call the Safe Drinking Water Hotline, or check www.epa.gov/ safewater/publicoutreach. Additional resources are listed in Appendix C.
Stormwater runoff threatens our sources of drinking water. As this water washes over roofs, pavement, farms and grassy areas, it picks up fertilizers, pesticides and litter, and deposits them in surface water and ground water. Here are some other threats to our drinking water: Every year: We apply 67 million pounds of pesticides that contain toxic and harmful chemicals to our lawns. We produce more than 230 million tons of municipal solid waterapproximately five pounds of trash or garbage per person per daythat contain bacteria, nitrates, viruses, synthetic detergents, and household chemicals. Our more than 12 million recreational and houseboats and 10,000 boat marinas release solvents, gasoline, detergents, and raw sewage directly into our rivers, lakes and streams.
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OC Acrylamide TT4
OC Alachlor 0.002 Eye, liver, kidney or spleen problems; Runoff from herbicide zero anemia; increased risk of cancer used on row crops Alpha/photon emitters 15 picocuries Increased risk of cancer Erosion of natural deposits of certain zero R per Liter minerals that are radioactive and (pCi/L) may emit a form of radiation known as alpha radiation IOC Antimony 0.006 Increase in blood cholesterol; decrease in blood sugar IOC Arsenic 0.010 IOC Asbestos (fibers >10 micrometers) 7 million fibers per Liter (MFL) Skin damage or problems with circulatory systems, and may have increased risk of getting cancer Increased risk of developing benign intestinal polyps Cardiovascular system or reproductive problems Discharge from petroleum refineries; fire retardants; ceramics; electronics; solder Erosion of natural deposits; runoff from orchards; runoff from glass & electronics production wastes Decay of asbestos cement in water mains; erosion of natural deposits Runoff from herbicide used on row crops Discharge of drilling wastes; discharge from metal refineries; erosion of natural deposits Discharge from factories; leaching from gas storage tanks and landfills Leaching from linings of water storage tanks and distribution lines Discharge from metal refineries and coal-burning factories; discharge from electrical, aerospace, and defense industries Decay of natural and man-made deposits of certain minerals that are radioactive and may emit forms of radiation known as photons and beta radiation Byproduct of drinking water disinfection Corrosion of galvanized pipes; erosion of natural deposits; discharge from metal refineries; runoff from waste batteries and paints Leaching of soil fumigant used on rice and alfalfa Discharge from chemical plants and other industrial activities Water additive used to control microbes Residue of banned termiticide Water additive used to control microbes Water additive used to control microbes Byproduct of drinking water disinfection Discharge from chemical and agricultural chemical factories Discharge from steel and pulp mills; erosion of natural deposits Corrosion of household plumbing systems; erosion of natural deposits 0.006
7 MFL
OC Atrazine 0.003
0.003 2
OC OC
23
zero zero 0.004
Benzene
0.005
Anemia; decrease in blood platelets; increased risk of cancer Reproductive difficulties; increased risk of cancer
zero
DBP
Bromate
0.010
zero 0.005
IOC Cadmium 0.005 Kidney damage OC Carbofuran 0.04 Problems with blood, nervous system, or reproductive system
0.04 zero MRDLG=41 zero MRDLG=41 MRDLG=0.81 0.8 0.1 0.1 1.3
Eye/nose irritation; stomach discomfort; anemia Liver or nervous system problems; increased risk of cancer
Anemia; infants, young children, and fetuses of pregnant women: nervous system effects Anemia; infants, young children, and fetuses of pregnant women: nervous system effects
OC Chlorobenzene 0.1 Liver or kidney problems IOC Chromium (total) 0.1 Allergic dermatitis IOC Copper TT5; Action Level = 1.3 Short-term exposure: Gastrointestinal distress. Long-term exposure: Liver or kidney damage. People with Wilsons Disease should consult their personal doctor if the amount of copper in their water exceeds the action level Short-term exposure: Gastrointestinal illness (e.g., diarrhea, vomiting, cramps)
M Cryptosporidium TT7
LEGEND
zero
D DBP
IOC M
OC R
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Contaminant
IOC Cyanide 0.2 Nerve damage or thyroid problems (as free cyanide) OC 2,4-D 0.07 Kidney, liver, or adrenal gland problems OC Dalapon 0.2 Minor kidney changes
OC
1,2-Dibromo-3- 0.0002 Reproductive difficulties; increased risk chloropropane of cancer (DBCP) Liver, kidney, or circulatory system problems Anemia; liver, kidney or spleen damage; changes in blood
0.6 0.075 zero 0.007 0.07 0.1 zero zero 0.4 zero 0.007 zero
OC 1,2-Dichloroethane 0.005 Increased risk of cancer OC 1,1-Dichloroethylene 0.007 Liver problems OC cis-1,2-Dichloroethylene 0.07 Liver problems
OC
24
OC OC
Di(2-ethylhexyl) adipate
0.4
Weight loss, liver problems, or possible reproductive difficulties Reproductive difficulties; liver problems; increased risk of cancer
OC Dinoseb 0.007 Reproductive difficulties OC Dioxin (2,3,7,8-TCDD) 0.00000003 Reproductive difficulties; increased risk of cancer
OC OC OC
OC
Ethylbenzene
0.7
Liver or kidney problems Problems with liver, stomach, reproductive system, or kidneys; increased risk of cancer
0.7 zero
Fecal coliforms and E. coli are bacteria whose Human and animal fecal waste zero6 presence indicates that the water may be contaminated with human or animal wastes. Microbes in these wastes may cause short term effects, such as diarrhea, cramps, nausea, headaches, or other symptoms. They may pose a special health risk for infants, young children, and people with severely compromised immune systems. Water additive which promotes strong teeth; erosion of natural deposits; discharge from fertilizer and aluminum factories Human and animal fecal waste Runoff from herbicide use Byproduct of drinking water disinfection Residue of banned termiticide Breakdown of heptachlor HPC measures a range of bacteria that are naturally present in the environment 4.0
IOC Fluoride 4.0 Bone disease (pain and tenderness of the bones); children may get mottled teeth
Short-term exposure: Gastrointestinal illness (e.g., diarrhea, vomiting, cramps) Kidney problems; reproductive difficulties
OC DBP OC OC
Glyphosate
0.7
Haloacetic acids 0.060 Increased risk of cancer (HAA5) Heptachlor Heptachlor epoxide 0.0004 0.0002 Liver damage; increased risk of cancer Liver damage; increased risk of cancer HPC has no health effects; it is an analytic method used to measure the variety of bacteria that are common in water. The lower the concentration of bacteria in drinking water, the better maintained the water system is.
D DBP
IOC M
OC R
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Contaminant
OC
Hexachlorobenzene
Found naturally in water; multiplies in heating systems Runoff/leaching from insecticide used on cattle, lumber, gardens Erosion of natural deposits; discharge from refineries and factories; runoff from landfills and croplands Runoff/leaching from insecticide used on fruits, vegetables, alfalfa, livestock Runoff from fertilizer use; leaching from septic tanks, sewage; erosion of natural deposits
OC Lindane 0.0002 Liver or kidney problems Mercury (inorganic) 0.002 Kidney damage
OC Methoxychlor 0.04 Reproductive difficulties IOC Nitrate (measured as 10 Nitrogen) IOC Nitrite (measured as 1 Nitrogen) Infants below the age of six months who drink water containing nitrate in excess of the MCL could become seriously ill and, if untreated, may die. Symptoms include shortness of breath and blue-baby syndrome. Infants below the age of six months who drink water containing nitrite in excess of the MCL could become seriously ill and, if untreated, may die. Symptoms include shortness of breath and blue-baby syndrome.
0.04 10
Runoff from fertilizer use; leaching from septic tanks, sewage; erosion of natural deposits
25
0.2 zero 0.5 zero
OC Oxamyl (Vydate) 0.2 Slight nervous system effects OC Pentachlorophenol 0.001 Liver or kidney problems; increased cancer risk Liver problems Skin changes; thymus gland problems; immune deficiencies; reproductive or nervous system difficulties; increased risk of cancer Increased risk of cancer
Runoff/leaching from insecticide used on apples, potatoes, and tomatoes Discharge from wood-preserving factories Herbicide runoff Runoff from landfills; discharge of waste chemicals
OC
Picloram
0.5
5 pCi/L
Erosion of natural deposits Discharge from petroleum and metal refineries; erosion of natural deposits; discharge from mines Herbicide runoff Discharge from rubber and plastic factories; leaching from landfills Discharge from factories and dry cleaners Leaching from ore-processing sites; discharge from electronics, glass, and drug factories Discharge from petroleum factories Naturally present in the environment
zero 0.05
IOC Selenium 0.05 Hair or fingernail loss; numbness in fingers or toes; circulatory problems OC Simazine 0.004 Problems with blood
OC OC IOC OC
Styrene Tetrachloroethylene
0.1 0.005
Liver, kidney, or circulatory system problems Liver problems; increased risk of cancer
Thallium 0.002 Hair loss; changes in blood; kidney, intestine, or liver problems Toluene 1 Nervous system, kidney, or liver problems Total Coliforms 5.0 Coliforms are bacteria that indicate that other, M potentially harmful bacteria may be present. percent8 See fecal coliforms and E. coli DBP Total Trihalomethanes 0.080 Liver, kidney or central nervous system problems; (TTHMs) increased risk of cancer OC Toxaphene 0.003 Kidney, liver, or thyroid problems; increased risk of cancer Liver problems
1 zero
Byproduct of drinking water disinfection Runoff/leaching from insecticide used on cotton and cattle Residue of banned herbicide Discharge from textile finishing factories Discharge from metal degreasing sites and other factories Discharge from industrial chemical factories Discharge from metal degreasing sites and other factories
1,2,4-Trichlorobenzene 0.07 Changes in adrenal glands OC 1,1,1-Trichloroethane 0.2 OC 1,1,2-Trichloroethane 0.005 Liver, nervous system, or circulatory problems Liver, kidney, or immune system problems
OC OC
2,4,5-TP (Silvex)
0.05
LEGEND
D DBP
IOC M
OC R
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Contaminant
M Turbidity TT7
R Uranium 30g/L Increased risk of cancer, kidney toxicity OC Vinyl chloride 0.002 Increased risk of cancer M Viruses (enteric) TT7
Short-term exposure: Gastrointestinal illness (e.g., diarrhea, vomiting, cramps) OC Xylenes (total) 10 Nervous system damage
Erosion of natural deposits Leaching from PVC pipes; discharge from plastic factories Human and animal fecal waste Discharge from petroleum factories; discharge from chemical factories
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LEGEND
D DBP
IOC M
OC R
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NOTES
1 Definitions Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG)The level of a contaminant in drinking water below which there is no known or expected risk to health. MCLGs allow for a margin of safety and are non-enforceable public health goals. Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL)The highest level of a contaminant that is allowed in drinking water. MCLs are set as close to MCLGs as feasible using the best available treatment technology and taking cost into consideration. MCLs are enforceable standards. Maximum Residual Disinfectant Level Goal (MRDLG)The level of a drinking water disinfectant below which there is no known or expected risk to health. MRDLGs do not reflect the benefits of the use of disinfectants to control microbial contaminants. Maximum Residual Disinfectant Level (MRDL)The highest level of a disinfectant allowed in drinking water. There is convincing evidence that addition of a disinfectant is necessary for control of microbial contaminants. Treatment Technique (TT)A required process intended to reduce the level of a contaminant in drinking water. 2 Units are in milligrams per liter (mg/L) unless otherwise noted. Milligrams per liter are equivalent to parts per million (ppm). 3 Health effects are from long-term exposure unless specified as short-term exposure. 4 Each water system must certify annually, in writing, to the state (using third-party or manufacturers certification) that when it uses acrylamide and/or epichlorohydrin to treat water, the combination (or product) of dose and monomer level does not exceed the levels specified, as follows: Acrylamide = 0.05 percent dosed at 1 mg/L (or equivalent); Epichlorohydrin = 0.01 percent dosed at 20 mg/L (or equivalent). 5 Lead and copper are regulated by a Treatment Technique that requires systems to control the corrosiveness of their water. If more than 10 percent of tap water samples exceed the action level, water systems must take additional steps. For copper, the action level is 1.3 mg/L, and for lead is 0.015 mg/L. 6 A routine sample that is fecal coliform-positive or E. coli-positive triggers repeat samples--if any repeat sample is total coliform-positive, the system has an acute MCL violation. A routine sample that is total coliform-positive and fecal coliform-negative or E. coli-negative triggers repeat samples--if any repeat sample is fecal coliform-positive or E. coli-positive, the system has an acute MCL violation. See also Total Coliforms. 7 EPAs surface water treatment rules require systems using surface water or ground water under the direct influence of surface water to (1) disinfect their water, and (2) filter their water or meet criteria for avoiding filtration so that the following contaminants are controlled at the following levels: Cryptosporidium: 99 percent removal for systems that filter. Unfiltered systems are required to include Cryptosporidium in their existing watershed control provisions. Giardia lamblia: 99.9 percent removal/inactivation Viruses: 99.99 percent removal/inactivation Legionella: No limit, but EPA believes that if Giardia and viruses are removed/inactivated according to the treatment techniques in the surface water treatment rule, Legionella will also be controlled. Turbidity: For systems that use conventional or direct filtration, at no time can turbidity (cloudiness of water) go higher than 1 nephelolometric turbidity unit (NTU), and samples for turbidity must be less than or equal to 0.3 NTU in at least 95 percent of the samples in any month. Systems that use filtration other than conventional or direct filtration must follow state limits, which must include turbidity at no time exceeding 5 NTU. HPC: No more than 500 bacterial colonies per milliliter Long Term 1 Enhanced Surface Water Treatment; Surface water systems or ground water systems under the direct influence of surface water serving fewer than 10,000 people must comply with the applicable Long Term 1 Enhanced Surface Water Treatment Rule provisions (e.g. turbidity standards, individual filter monitoring, Cryptosporidium removal requirements, updated watershed control requirements for unfiltered systems). Long Term 2 Enhanced Surface Water Treatment; This rule applies to all surface water systems or ground water systems under the direct influence of surface water. The rule targets additional Cryptosporidium treatment requirements for higher risk systems and includes provisions to reduce risks from uncovered finished water storages facilities and to ensure that the systems maintain microbial protection as they take steps to reduce the formation of disinfection byproducts. (Monitoring start dates are staggered by system size. The largest systems (serving at least 100,000 people) will begin monitoring in October 2006 and the smallest systems (serving fewer than 10,000 people) will not begin monitoring until October 2008. After completing monitoring and determining their treatment bin, systems generally have three years to comply with any additional treatment requirements.) Filter Backwash Recycling: The Filter Backwash Recycling Rule requires systems that recycle to return specific recycle flows through all processes of the systems existing conventional or direct filtration system or at an alternate location approved by the state. 8 No more than 5.0 percent samples total coliform-positive in a month. (For water systems that collect fewer than 40 routine samples per month, no more than one sample can be total coliform-positive per month.) Every sample that has total coliform must be analyzed for either fecal coliforms or E. coli. If two consecutive TC-positive samples, and one is also positive for E. coli or fecal coliforms, system has an acute MCL violation. 9 Although there is no collective MCLG for this contaminant group, there are individual MCLGs for some of the individual contaminants: Haloacetic acids: dichloroacetic acid (zero); trichloroacetic acid (0.3 mg/L) Trihalomethanes: bromodichloromethane (zero); bromoform (zero); dibromochloromethane (0.06 mg/L)
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Appendix B: References
US EPA Publications
25 Years of the Safe Drinking Water Act: History & Trends EPA 816-R-99-007 Community Water Systems Survey 2000, Volume I EPA 815-R-02-0054 Drinking Water Costs and Federal Funding EPA 810-F-99-014 Safe Drinking Water Act: Underground Injection Control Program: Protecting Public Health and Drinking Water Resources EPA 816-H-01-003 The Clean Water and Drinking Water Infrastructure Gap Analysis EPA 816-F-02-017 The Drinking Water State Revolving Fund: Protecting the Public Through Drinking Water Infrastructure Improvements EPA 819-F-00-028 Understanding the Safe Drinking Water Act EPA 810-F-99-008 Using Water Wisely in the Home EPA 800-F-02-001 What to Do After the Flood English, 816-F-05-021 Spanish, 816-F-05-021 Vietnamese, 816-F-05-025 Is There Lead In My Drinking Water? 816-F-05-001 Guidance for People with Severely Weakened Immune Systems, 816-F-99-005 Public Involvement in Water Security Web site, a compilation of resources to help increase public awareness of water security issues and to give citizens information and guidance to help them prepare for potential emergency incidents and incorporate security activities into their daily lives, http://cfpub.epa.gov/safewater/watersecurity/publicInvolve.cfm Environmental Education: Thirstins Drinking Water Games and Activities (CD-ROM), 816-C-04-008 Virtual Tour of a Water Treatment Plant (CD-ROM), 816-C-06-002 Find answers to your questions about drinking water and ground water programs authorized under the Safe Drinking Water Act in EPAs dynamic question and answer database, http://www.epa.gov/safewater/drinklink.html.
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Drinking Water from Household Wells EPA 816-K-02-003 Drinking Water Priority Rulemaking: Microbial and Disinfection Byproduct Rules EPA 816-F-01-012 Drinking Water Treatment EPA 810-F-99-013 Factoids: Drinking Water and Ground Water Statistics for 2001 EPA 815-K-02-004 Factoids: Drinking Water and Ground Water Statistics for 2002 EPA 816K-03-001 Fact Sheet: 1999 Drinking Water Infrastructure Needs Survey EPA 816-F-01-001 Investing in Americas Water Infrastructure Keynote Address by G. Tracy Mehan III to the Schwab Capital Markets Global Water Conference Protect Your Drinking Water EPA 816-F-02-012 Public Access to Information & Public Involvement EPA 810-F-99-021 Report to Congress: EPA Studies on Sensitive Subpopulations and Drinking Water Contaminants EPA 815-R-00-015 Safe Drinking Water Act-Protecting Americas Public Health EPA 816-H-02-003
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International Bottled Water Association 1700 Diagonal Road Suite 650 Alexandria, VA 22314 Phone (703) 683-5213 Information Hotline 1-800-WATER-11 [email protected] National Association of Regulatory Utility Commissioners 1101 Vermont Ave NW Suite 200 Washington, DC 20005 Phone (202) 898-2200 www.naruc.org National Association of Water Companies 2001 L Street NW Suite 850 Washington, DC 20036 Phone (202) 833-8383 www.nawc.org National Drinking Water Clearinghouse West Virginia University P.O. Box 6064 Morgantown, WV 26506 Phone (800) 624-8301 www.ndwc.wvu.edu National Ground Water Association 601 Dempsey Rd Westerville, OH 43081-8978 Phone: (800) 551-7379 www.ngwa.org National Rural Water Association 2915 South 13th Street Duncan, OK 73533 Phone (580) 252-0629 www.nrwa.org Natural Resources Defense Council 40 West 20th Street New York, NY 10011 Phone (212) 727-2700 www.nrdc.org
Safe Drinking Water Hotline: 800-426-4791
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NSF International P.O. Box 130140 789 North Dixboro Road Ann Arbor, MI 48113 Phone (800) NSF-MARK www.nsf.org Rural Community Assistance Program 1522 K Street NW Suite 400 Washington, DC 20005 Phone (800) 321-7227 www.rcap.org Underwriters Laboratories Corporate Headquarters 2600 N.W. Lake Road Camas, WA 98607 Phone (877) 854-3577 www.ul.com Water Quality Association 4151 Naperville Road Lisle, IL 60532 Phone (630) 505-0160 www.wqa.org U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Water Resource Center 1200 Pennsylvania Avenue NW RC-4100T Washington, DC 20460 SDWA Hotline (800) 426-4791 www.epa.gov/safewater Water Systems Council National Programs Office 101 30th Street NW Suite 500 Washington, D.C. 20007 Phone: (202) 625-4387 Wellcare Hotline 888-395-1033 www.watersystems council.org EPA Region 1 (CT, ME, MA, NH, RI, VT) Phone (888) 372-7341 Phone (617) 918-1614
EPA Region 2 (NJ, NY, PR, VI) Phone (212) 637-3000 EPA Region 3 (DE, DC, MD, PA, VA, WV) Phone (215) 814-5000 EPA Region 4 (AL, FL, GA, KY, MS, NC, SC, TN) Phone (404) 562-9900 EPA Region 5 (IL, IN, MI, MN, OH, WI) Phone (312) 353-2000 EPA Region 6 (AR, LA, NM, OK, TX) Phone (214) 665-2200 EPA Region 7 (IA, KS, MO, NE) Phone (913) 551-7003 EPA Region 8 (CO, MT, ND, SD, UT, WY) Phone (303) 312-6312 EPA Region 9 (AZ, CA, HI, NW, AS GU) Phone (415) 947-8000 EPA Region 10 (AK, ID, OR, WA) Phone (206) 553-1200
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Appendix D: Glossary
Action Level
The level of lead and copper which, if exceeded, triggers treatment or other requirements that a water system must follow.
Ground Water
Water that is pumped and treated from an aquifer
Inorganic Contaminants
Mineral-based compounds such as metals, nitrates, and asbestos; naturally occurring in some water, but can also enter water through human activities
Aquifer
A natural underground layer, often of sand or gravel, that contains water
Coliform
A group of related bacteria whose presence in drinking water may indicate contamination by disease-causing microorganisms
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Contaminant
Anything found in water (including microorganisms, radionuclides, chemicals, minerals, etc.) which may be harmful to human health
Microorganisms
Tiny living organisms that can be seen only under a microscope; some can cause acute health problems when consumed in drinking water
Cryptosporidium
Microorganism found commonly in lakes and rivers which is highly resistant to disinfection.
Disinfectant
A chemical (commonly chlorine, chloramines, or ozone) or physical process (e.g., ultraviolet light) that kills microorganisms such as viruses, bacteria, and protozoa
Organic Contaminants
Carbon-based chemicals, such as solvents and pesticides, which enter water through cropland runoff or discharge from factories
Distribution System
A network of pipes leading from a treatment plant to customers plumbing systems
Pathogen
Disease-causing organism
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Sensitive Subpopulation
People who may be more vulnerable to drinking water contamination, such as infants, children, some elderly, and people with severely compromised immune systems
Violation
Failure to meet any state or federal drinking water regulation
Septic System
Used to treat sanitary waste; can be a significant threat to water quality due to leaks or runoff
Vulnerability Assessment
An evaluation of drinking water source quality and its vulnerability to contamination by pathogens and toxic chemicals
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Source Water
Water in its natural state, prior to any treatment for drinking (i.e., lakes, streams, ground water)
Watershed
The land area from which water drains into a stream, river, or reservoir
Surface Water
Water that is pumped and treated from sources open to the atmosphere, such as rivers, lakes, and reservoirs
Well
A bored, drilled or driven shaft whose depth is greater than the largest surface dimension, a dug hole whose depth is greater than the largest surface dimension, an improved sinkhole, or a sub surface fluid distribution system
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