Microorganisms-  microscopic plants and animals 

Disinfectants- are chemical substances or compounds used to inactivate or destroy microorganisms 

Disinfection Byproducts-(DBPs) are chemicals that form when disinfectants react with inorganic or organic matter. Common DBPs in drinking water include: Chlorate, Chlorite, Bromate, Trihalomethanes (THMs, Haloacetic acids. 

Inorganic Chemicals- are chemicals that contain no carbon. They have unique characteristics, including: 

• High boiling and melting points
• Rigid structures
• Water solubility

Examples: 

Ammonia: A colorless gas with a pungent smell

Hydrochloric acid: Composed of hydrogen and chlorine

Sulfuric acid: A highly corrosive acid that is soluble in water

Sodium chloride: An inorganic compound

Calcium carbonate: An inorganic compound

Organic Chemicals- are chemical compounds that contain carbon as part of their molecular structure. They can be either natural or synthetic. Organic chemicals are defined by diverse physical properties such as: Odor, Solubility, Density, Melting point, Boiling point.

Organic Chemicals can be:

Microorganisms-

• Crytosporidium
• Guiardia Lamblia
• Heterotrophic Plate Count (HPC)(not an individual microorganism, but related to microorganisms because HPC is an analytic method used to measure the variety of bacteria that are common in water)
• Legionella
• Total Coliforms (including fecal coliform and E. coli)
• Turbidity (is a measure of the cloudiness of water (the higher the turbidity of the water, the higher the incidence of disease-causing microorganisms being present in the water)
• Viruses (enteric [relating to or occurring in the intestines])

Disinfection Byproducts 

• Bromate
• Chlorite 
• Haloacetic acids (HAA5)
• Total Trihalomethanes (TTHMs)

Disinfectants 

• Chloramines (as Cl2)
• Chlorine (as Cl2)
• Chlorine Dioxide (ClO2)

Inorganic Chemicals 

• Antimony
• Arsenic 
• Asbestos (fiber > 10 micrometers)
• Barium 
• Beryllium
• Cadmium
• Chromium (total)
• Copper
• Cyanide (as free cyanide)
• Fluoride
• Lead
• Mercury (inorganic)
• Nitrate (measured as Nitrogen)
• Nitrite (measured as Nitrogen) 
• Selenium Thallium

Organic Chemicals 

• Acrylamide 
• Alachlor 
• Atrazine 
• Benzene 
• Benzo(a)pyrene (PAHs)
• Cabofuran
• Carbon tetrachloride 
• Chloradane
• Chlorobenzene 
• 2,4-D
• Dalapon
• 1,2-Dibromo-3-chloropropane (DBCP)
• o-Dicholorobenzene
• p-Dichlorobenzene 
• 1,2-Dichloroethane 
• 1,1-Dichlorenthylene 
• trans-1,2-Dichloroethylene 
• Dichloromethane 
• 1,2-Dichloropropane 
• Di(2ethylhexyl) adipate
• Di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate
• Dinoseb
• Dioxin (2,3,7,8-TCDD)
• Diquat
• Endothall
• Endrin 
• Epichlorhydrin
• Ethylbenzene
• Ethylene dibromide
• Glyphosate 
• Heptachlor 
• Heptachlor epoxide 
• Hexachlorobenzene 
• Hexachlorocyclopentadiene 
• Lindane 
• Methoxychlor 
• Oxamyl (Vydate)
• Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs)
• Pentachlorophenol 
• Picloram 
• Simazine 
• Styrene 
• Tetrachlorenthylene 
• Toluene 
• Toxaphene 
• 2,4,5-TP (Silvex)
• 1,1,1-Trichloroethane 
• 1,1,2-Trichlorenthane 
• Vinyl Chloride
• Xylenenes (totals)

Radionuclides 

• Alpha particles 
• Beta particles and photon emitters 
• Radium 226 and Radium 228 (combined)
• Uranium 

Microorganisms:

Cryptosporidium Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG), Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL), Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water, Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water

MCLG: zero mg/l

MCL: TT (treatment technology available and cost-prohibitive use aligned in setting contaminant level as close as possible to MCLG)

Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water: gastrointestinal illness (e.g., diarrhea, vomiting, cramps)

Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water: human and fecal animal waste 

Microorganisms: 

Giardia Lambia Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG), Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL), Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water, Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water

MCLG: zero mg/l

MCL: TT (treatment technology available and cost-prohibitive use aligned in setting contaminant level as close as possible to MCLG)

Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water: gastrointestinal illness (e.g., diarrhea, vomiting, cramps)

Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water: human and fecal animal waste 

Microorganisms:

Heterotrophic Plate Count Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG), Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL), Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water, Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water

MCLG: n/a

MCL: TT (treatment technology available and cost-prohibitive use aligned in setting contaminant level as close as possible to MCLG)

Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water: HPC has no health effects; it is an anylitic 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. 

Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water: HPC measures a range of bacteria that are naturally present in the environment. 

Microorganisms:

Legionella Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG), Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL), Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water, Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water

MCLG: zero mg/l

MCL: TT (treatment technology available and cost-prohibitive use aligned in setting contaminant level as close as possible to MCLG)

Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water: Legionnaire's Disease, a type of pneumonia

Sources of Contaminants in Drinking Water: found naturally in water, it multiplies in heating systems.

Microorganisms:

Total Coliforms (including fecal coliform and E. coli) Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG), Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL), Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water, Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water

MCLG: zero

MCL: 5.0%

Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water: not a health threat in itself; it is used to indicate whether other potentially harmful bacteria may be present.

Sources of Contaminants in Drinking Water: Coliforms are naturally present in the environment, as well as feces; fecal coliforms and E. coli only come from human and animal fecal waste.

Microorganisms:

Turbidity Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG), Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL), Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water, Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water

MCLG: n/a

 MCL: TT (treatment technology available and cost-prohibitive use aligned in setting contaminant level as close as possible to MCLG)

Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water: Turbidity is a measure of the cloudiness of water. It is used to indicate water quality and filtration effectiveness (e.g., whether disease-causing organisms are present). Higher turbidity levels are often associated with higher levels of disease-causing microorganisms such as nausea, cramps, diarrhea, and associated headaches.

Sources of Contaminants in Drinking Water: soil runoff 

Microorganisms:

Viruses (enteric) [enteric means relating to or occurring in the intestines]

Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG), Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL), Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water, Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water

MCLG: zero

 MCL: TT (treatment technology available and cost-prohibitive use aligned in setting contaminant level as close as possible to MCLG)

Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water: gastrointestinal illness (e.g., diarrhea, vomiting, cramps)

Sources of Contaminants in Drinking Water: human and animal waste

Disinfection Byproducts:

Bromate Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG), Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL), Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water, Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water

MCLG: zero

MCL: 0.010

Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water: increased risk of cancer

Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water: byproduct of drinking water disinfection

Disinfection Byproducts:

Chlorite Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG), Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL), Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water, Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water

MCLG: 0.8

MCL: 1.0

Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water: Anemia; infants & young children; nervous system effects

Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water: byproduct of drinking water disinfection

Disinfection Byproducts:

Haloacetic Acids (HAA5) Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG), Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL), Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water, Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water

MCLG: n/a [dichloroacetic acid: (zero), trichloracetic acid (0.3 mg/l). Monochloroacetic acid, bromoacetic acid and dibromoacetic acid are regulated with this group, but has no MCLG.

MCL: 0.060

Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water: increased risk of cancer

Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water: byproduct of drinking water disinfection

Disinfection Byproducts:

Total Trihalomethanes (TTHMs) Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG), Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL), Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water, Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water

MCLG: n/a [dichloroacetic acid: (zero), trichloracetic acid (0.3 mg/l). Monochloroacetic acid, bromoacetic acid and dibromoacetic acid are regulated with this group, but has no MCLG. [MCLGs were not established before the 1986 amendments to the Safe Drinking Water Act. Therefore, there is no MCLG for this contaminant.]

MCL: 0.080

Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water: Liver, kidney, or central nervous system problems; increased risk of cancer

Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water: byproduct of drinking water disinfection

Disinfectants:

Chloramines (as CL2) Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG), Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL), Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water, Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water

MCLG: 4 mg/l

MCL: 4.0 mg/l

Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water: eye/nose irritation; stomach discomfort, anemia

Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water: Water additive used to control microbes

Disinfectants:

Chlorine (as CL2) Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG), Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL), Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water, Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water

MCLG: 4 mg/l

MCL: 4.0 mg/l

Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water: eye/nose irritation; stomach discomfort, anemia  

Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water: Water additive used to control microbes

Disinfectants:

Chlorine Dioxide (as CLO2) Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG), Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL), Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water, Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water

MCLG: 0.8 mg/l

MCL: 0.8 mg/l

Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water: anemia; infants & young children--nervous system effects  

Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water: Water additive used to control microbes

Inorganic Chemicals:

Antimony Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG), Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL), Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water, Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water

MCLG: 0.006 mg/l

MCL: 0.006 mg/l

Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water: Increase in blood cholesterol; decrease in blood sugar

Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water: Discharge from petroleum refineries; fire retardants; ceramics; electronics; solder

Inorganic Chemicals:

Arsenic Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG), Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL), Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water, Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water

MCLG: 0 mg/l

MCL:0.010 as of 01/23/06 mg/l

Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water: skin damage or problems with circulatory systems, and possible increased risk of getting cancer

Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water: erosion of natural deposits; runoff from orchards, runoff from glass & electronics production wastes

Inorganic Chemicals:

Asbestos (fiber >10 micrometers) Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG), Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL), Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water, Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water

MCLG: 7 million fibers per liter

MCL: 7 MFL

Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water: increased risk of developing benign intestinal polyps

Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water: decay of asbestos cement in water mains; erosion of natural deposits

Inorganic Chemicals:

Barium Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG), Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL), Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water, Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water

MCLG: 2 mg/l

MCL: 2 mg/l

Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water: increase in blood pressure

Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water: discharge of drilling wastes; discharge from metal refineries; erosion of natural deposits

Inorganic Chemicals:

Beryllium Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG), Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL), Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water, Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water

MCLG: 0.004 mg/l

MCL: 0.004 mg/l

Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water: intestinal lesions

Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water: discharge from metal refineries and coal-burning factories; discharge from electrical, aerospace, and defense industries

Inorganic Chemicals:

Cadmium Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG), Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL), Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water, Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water

MCLG: 0.005 mg/l

MCL: 0.005 mg/l

Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water: kidney damage

Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water: corrosion of galvanized pipes; erosion of natural deposits; discharge from metal refineries; runoff from waste batteries and paint

Inorganic Chemicals:

Chromium (total) Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG), Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL), Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water, Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water

MCLG: 0.1 mg/l

MCL: 0.1 mg/l

Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water: allergic dermatitis

Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water: discharge from steel and pulp mills; erosion of natural deposits

Inorganic Chemicals:

Copper Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG), Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL), Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water, Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water

MCLG: 1.3 mg/l

MCL: TT; Action Level = 1.3 mg/l

Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water: [short-term exposure: Gastrointestinal distress, long-term exposure: Liver or kidney damage, People with Wilson's Disease should consult their personal doctor if the amount of copper in their water exceeds the action level

Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water: Corrosion of household plumbing systems; erosion of natural deposits

Inorganic Chemicals:

Cyanide (as free cyanide) Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG), Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL), Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water, Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water

MCLG: 0.2 mg/l

MCL: 0.2 mg/l

Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water: nerve damage or thyroid problems

Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water: Discharge from steel/metal factories; discharge from plastic and fertilizer factories

Inorganic Chemicals:

Fluoride Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG), Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL), Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water, Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water

MCLG: 4.0 mg/l

MCL: 4.0 mg/l

Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water: bone disease (pain and tenderness of the bones); Children may get mottled teeth

Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water: Water additive that promotes strong teeth; erosion of natural deposits; discharge from fertilizer and aluminum factories

Inorganic Chemicals:

Lead Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG), Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL), Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water, Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water

MCLG: zero mg/l

MCL: TT; Action Level= 0.015 mg/l

Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water: infants and children: Delays in physical or mental development; children could show slight deficits in attention span and learning abilities, Adults: kidney problems; high blood pressure

Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water: Corrosion of household plumbing systems; erosion of natural deposits

Inorganic Chemicals:

Mercury (inorganic) Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG), Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL), Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water, Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water

MCLG: 0.002 mg/l

MCL: 0.002 mg/l

Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water: kidney damage

Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water: erosion of natural deposits; discharge from refineries and factories; runoff from landfills and croplands

Inorganic Chemicals:

Nitrate (measured as Nitrogen) Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG), Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL), Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water, Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water

MCLG: 10 mg/l

MCL: 10 mg/l

Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water: 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.

Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water: Runoff from fertilizer use; leaching from septic tanks, sewage; erosion of natural deposits

Inorganic Chemicals:

Nitrite (measured as Nitrogen) Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG), Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL), Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water, Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water

MCLG: 1 mg/l

MCL: 1 mg/l

Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water: 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.

Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water: Runoff from fertilizer use; leaching from septic tanks, sewage; erosion of natural deposits

Inorganic Chemicals:

Selenium Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG), Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL), Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water, Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water

MCLG: 0.05 mg/l

MCL: 0.05 mg/l

Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water: hair or fingernail loss; numbness in fingers or toes; circulatory problems

Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water: Discharge from petroleum refineries; erosion of natural deposits; discharge from mines

Inorganic Chemicals:

Thallium Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG), Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL), Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water, Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water

MCLG: 0.0005 mg/l

MCL: 0.002 mg/l

Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water: hair loss; changes in blood; kidney, intestine, or liver problems

Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water: Leaching from ore-processing sites; discharge from electronics, glass, and drug factories

Organic Chemicals:

Acrylamide Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG), Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL), Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water, Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water

MCLG: zero mg/l

MCL: TT mg/l

*in this context: Each water system must certify, in writing, to the state (using third-party or manufacturer's certification) that when acrylamide and epichlorohydrin are used in drinking water systems, the combination (or product) of dose and monomer level does not exceed the levels specified, as follows:

• acylamide= 0.05% dosed at 1 mg/l (or equivalent)
• epichlorohydrin= 0.01% dosed at 20 mg/l (or equivalent)

Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water: nervous system or blood problems; increased risk of cancer

Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water: Added to water during sewage/ wastewater treatment

Organic Chemicals:

Alachlor Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG), Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL), Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water, Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water

MCLG: zero mg/l

MCL: 0.002 mg/l

Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water: eye, liver, kidney, or spleen problems; anemia; increased risk of cancer

Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water: runoff from herbicide used on row crops

Organic Chemicals:

Atrazine Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG), Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL), Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water, Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water

MCLG: 0.003 mg/l

MCL: 0.003 mg/l

Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water: cardiovascular system or reproductive problems

Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water: runoff from herbicide used on row crops

Organic Chemicals:

Benzene Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG), Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL), Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water, Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water

MCLG: zero mg/l

MCL: 0.005 mg/l

Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water: anemia; decrease in blood platelets; increased risk of cancer

Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water: Discharge from factories; leaching from gas storage tanks and landfills

Organic Chemicals:

Benzo(a)pyrene (PAHs) Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG), Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL), Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water, Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water

MCLG: zero mg/l

MCL: 0.0002 mg/l

Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water: reproductive difficulties; increased risk of cancer 

Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water: leaching from linings of water storage tanks and distribution lines

Organic Chemicals:

Carbofuran Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG), Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL), Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water, Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water

MCLG: 0.04 mg/l

MCL: 0.04 mg/l

Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water: problems with blood, nervous system, or reproductive system

Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water: leaching of soil fumigant used on rice and alfalfa

Organic Chemicals:

Carbon Tetrachloride Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG), Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL), Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water, Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water

MCLG: zero mg/l

MCL: 0.005 mg/l

Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water: liver problems, increased risk of cancer

Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water: discharge from chemical plants and other industrial activities

Organic Chemicals:

Chlordane Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG), Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL), Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water, Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water

MCLG: zero mg/l

MCL: 0.002 mg/l

Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water: liver or nervous system problems; increased risk of cancer

Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water: residue of banned termiticide (means any pesticide labeled, designed, or intended for use in preventing, destroying, repelling, or mitigating termites.)

Organic Chemicals:

Chlorobenzene Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG), Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL), Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water, Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water

MCLG: 0.1 mg/l

MCL: 0.1 mg/l

Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water: liver or kidney problems

Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water: discharge from chemical and agricultural chemical factories

Organic Chemicals:

2,4-D Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG), Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL), Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water, Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water

MCLG: 0.07 mg/l

MCL: 0.07 mg/l

Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water: kidney, liver, or adrenal gland problems

Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water: runoff from herbicide used on row crops

Organic Chemicals:

Dalapon Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG), Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL), Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water, Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water

MCLG: 0.2 mg/l

MCL: 0.2 mg/l

Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water: minor kidney changes

Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water: runoff from herbicide used on rights of way (a specific route through the grounds or property of another party)

*rights of way (general definition: the legal right, established by usage or grant, to pass along a specific route through grounds or property belonging to another. Rights of way can be established by an easement, which can specify the parameters of the easement or be a general right to pass over or through.)

From the Archived US EPA Consumer Fact Sheet on Dalapon: https://archive.epa.gov/water/archive/web/pdf/archived-consumer-fact-sheet-on-dalapon.pdf

"Dalapon is released directly to the environment in its use as a herbicide for the control of annual and perennial grasses. Domestic production of dalapon in 1982 ranged between 7 and 9 million lbs. active ingredient. In 1984, its use in California was reported as follows: Non-food use, 92.9% (mostly on rights of way); main food crop treated was sugarbeet (6.7% of total)."

***Dalapon's high usage as an herbicide for non-foods (mostly on rights of way) uniquely distinguishes how the chemical consequently becomes runoff that water treatment systems have to effectively combat to ensure their production of clean, aesthetically pleasing, potable water. ***

Organic Chemicals:

1,2-Dibromo-3-chloropropane (DBCP) Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG), Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL), Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water, Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water

MCLG: zero mg/l

MCL: 0.0002 mg/l

Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water: reproductive difficulties; increased risk of cancer

Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water: runoff/leaching from soil fumigant used on soybeans, cotton, pineapples, and orchards

Organic Chemicals:

o-Dichlorobenzene Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG), Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL), Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water, Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water

MCLG: 0.6 mg/l

MCL: 0.6 mg/l

Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water: liver, kidney, or circulatory system problems

Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water: discharge from industrial chemical factories

Organic Chemicals:

p-Dichlorobenzene Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG), Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL), Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water, Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water

MCLG: 0.075 mg/l

MCL: 0.075 mg/l

Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water: anemia; liver, kidney, or spleen damage; changes in blood 

Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water: discharge from industrial chemical factories

Organic Chemicals:

1,2-Dichloroethane Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG), Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL), Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water, Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water

MCLG: zero mg/l

MCL: 0.005 mg/l

Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water: increased risk of cancer

Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water: discharge from industrial chemical factories

Organic Chemicals:

1,1-Dichloroethylene Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG), Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL), Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water, Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water

MCLG: 0.007 mg/l

MCL: 0.007 mg/l

Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water: liver problems

Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water: discharge from industrial chemical factories

Organic Chemicals:

cis-1,2-Dichloroethylene Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG), Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL), Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water, Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water

MCLG: 0.07 mg/l

MCL: 0.07 mg/l

Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water: liver problems

Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water: discharge from industrial chemical factories

Organic Chemicals:

trans-1,2-Dichloroethylene Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG), Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL), Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water, Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water

MCLG: 0.1 mg/l

MCL: 0.1 mg/l

Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water: liver problems

Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water: discharge from industrial chemical factories

Organic Chemicals:

Dichloromethane Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG), Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL), Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water, Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water

MCLG: zero mg/l

MCL: 0.005 mg/l

Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water: liver problems; increased risk of cancer

Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water: discharge from industrial chemical factories

Organic Chemicals:

Dichloromethane Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG), Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL), Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water, Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water

MCLG: zero mg/l

MCL: 0.005 mg/l

Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water: liver problems; increased risk of cancer

Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water: discharge from drug and chemical factories

Organic Chemicals:

1,2-Dichloropropane Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG), Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL), Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water, Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water

MCLG: zero mg/l

MCL: 0.005 mg/l

Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water: increased risk of cancer

Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water: discharge from industrial chemical factories

Organic Chemicals:

Di(2-ethyhexyl) adipate Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG), Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL), Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water, Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water

MCLG: 0.4 mg/l

MCL: 0.4 mg/l

Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water: weight loss, liver problems, or possible reproductive difficulties

Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water: discharge from chemical factories

Organic Chemicals:

Di(2-ethyhexyl) phthalate Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG), Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL), Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water, Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water

MCLG: zero mg/l

MCL: 0.006 mg/l

Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water: reproductive difficulties; liver problems; increased risk of cancer

Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water: Discharge from rubber and chemical factories

Organic Chemicals:

Dinoseb Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG), Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL), Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water, Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water

MCLG: 0.007 mg/l

MCL: 0.007 mg/l

Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water: reproductive difficulties

Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water: runoff from herbicide used on soybeans and vegetables

Organic Chemicals:

Dioxin (2,3,7,8-TCDD) Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG), Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL), Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water, Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water

MCLG: zero mg/l

MCL: 0.00000003 mg/l

Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water: reproductive difficulties; increased risk of cancer

Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water: emissions from waste incineration and other combustion; discharge from chemical factories

Organic Chemicals:

Diquat Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG), Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL), Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water, Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water

MCLG: 0.02 mg/l

MCL: 0.02 mg/l

Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water: cataracts  

Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water: runoff from herbicide use

Organic Chemicals:

Endothall Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG), Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL), Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water, Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water

MCLG: 0.1 mg/l

MCL: 0.1 mg/l

Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water: stomach and intestinal problems  

Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water: runoff from herbicide use

Organic Chemicals:

Endrin Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG), Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL), Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water, Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water

MCLG: 0.002 mg/l

MCL: 0.002 mg/l

Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water: liver problems 

Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water: residue of banned insecticide

Organic Chemicals:

Epichlorohydrin Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG), Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL), Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water, Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water

MCLG: zero mg/l

MCL: TT mg/l

*TT (in this context: Each water system must certify, in writing, to the state (using third-party or manufacturer's certification) that when acrylamide and epichlorohydrin are used in drinking water systems, the combination (or product) of dose and monomer level does not exceed the levels specified, as follows:

• acylamide= 0.05% dosed at 1 mg/l (or equivalent)
• epichlorohydrin= 0.01% dosed at 20 mg/l (or equivalent)

Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water: cataracts  

Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water: runoff from herbicide use

Organic Chemicals:

Ethylbenzene Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG), Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL), Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water, Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water

MCLG: 0.7/l

MCL: 0.7 mg/l

Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water: liver or kidney problems 

Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water: discharge from petroleum refineries

Organic Chemicals:

Ethylene dibromide Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG), Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL), Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water, Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water

MCLG: zero mg/l

MCL: 0.00005 mg/l

Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water: problems with liver, stomach, reproductive system, or kidneys; increased risk of cancer

Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water: discharge from petroleum refineries

Organic Chemicals:

Glyphosate Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG), Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL), Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water, Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water

MCLG: 0.7 mg/l

MCL: 0.7 mg/l

Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water: kidney problems; reproductive difficulties

Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water: runoff from herbicide use

Organic Chemicals:

Heptachlor Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG), Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL), Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water, Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water

MCLG: zero mg/l

MCL: 0.0004 mg/l

Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water: liver damage; increased risk of cancer 

Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water: residue of banned termiticide

Organic Chemicals:

Heptachlor Epoxide Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG), Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL), Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water, Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water

MCLG: zero mg/l

MCL: 0.0002 mg/l

Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water: liver damage; increased risk of cancer 

Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water: breakdown of heptachlor

Organic Chemicals:

Hexachlorobenzene Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG), Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL), Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water, Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water

MCLG: zero mg/l

MCL: 0.001 mg/l

Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water: liver or kidney problems; reproductive problems; increased risk of cancer 

Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water: discharge from metal refineries and agricultural chemical factories

Organic Chemicals:

Hexachlorocyclopentadiene Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG), Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL), Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water, Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water

MCLG: 0.05 mg/l

MCL: 0.05 mg/l

Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water: kidney or stomach problems

Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water: discharge from chemical factories

Organic Chemicals:

Lindane Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG), Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL), Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water, Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water

MCLG: 0.0002 mg/l

MCL: 0.0002 mg/l

Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water: liver or kidney problems

Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water: runoff/leaching from insecticide used on cattle, lumber, gardens

Organic Chemicals:

Methoxychlor Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG), Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL), Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water, Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water

MCLG: 0.04 mg/l

MCL: 0.04 mg/l

Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water: reproductive difficulties

Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water: runoff/ leaching from insecticide used on fruits, vegetables, alfalfa, livestock

Organic Chemicals:

Oxamyl (Vydate) Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG), Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL), Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water, Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water

MCLG: 0.2 mg/l

MCL: 0.2 mg/l

Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water: slight nervous system effects

Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water: runoff/leaching from insecticide used on apples, potatoes, and tomatoes

Organic Chemicals:

Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG), Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL), Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water, Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water

MCLG: zero mg/l

MCL: 0.0005 mg/l

Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water: skin changes; thymus gland problems; immune deficiencies; reproductive or nervous system difficulties; increased risk of cancer

Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water: runoff from landfills; discharge of waste chemicals

Organic Chemicals:

Pentachlorophenol Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG), Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL), Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water, Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water

MCLG: zero mg/l

MCL: 0.001 mg/l

Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water: Liver or kidney problems; increased cancer risk

Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water: discharge from wood-preserving factories

Organic Chemicals:

Picloram Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG), Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL), Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water, Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water

MCLG: 0.5 mg/l

MCL: 0.5 mg/l

Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water: Liver problems

Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water: herbicide runoff

Organic Chemicals:

Simazine Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG), Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL), Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water, Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water

MCLG: 0.004 mg/l

MCL: 0.004 mg/l

Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water: problems with blood

Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water: herbicide runoff

Organic Chemicals:

Styrene Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG), Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL), Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water, Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water

MCLG: 0.1 mg/l

MCL: 0.1 mg/l

Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water: Liver, kidney, or circulatory system problems

Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water: discharge from rubber and plastic factories; leaching from landfills

Organic Chemicals:

Tetrachloroethylene Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG), Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL), Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water, Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water

MCLG: zero mg/l

MCL: 0.005 mg/l

Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water: liver problems; increased risk of cancer

Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water: discharge from factories and dry cleaners

Organic Chemicals:

Toluene Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG), Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL), Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water, Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water

MCLG: 1 mg/l

MCL: 1 mg/l

Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water: nervous system, kidney, or liver problems

Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water: discharge from petroleum factories

Organic Chemicals:

Toxaphene Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG), Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL), Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water, Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water

MCLG: zero mg/l

MCL: 0.003 mg/l

Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water: kidney, liver, or thyroid problems; increased risk of cancer

Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water: runoff/leaching from insecticide used on cotton and cattle

Organic Chemicals:

2,4,5-TP (Silvex) Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG), Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL), Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water, Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water

MCLG: 0.05 mg/l

MCL: 0.05 mg/l

Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water: liver problems

Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water: residue of banned herbicide

Organic Chemicals:

1,2,4-Trichlorobenzene Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG), Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL), Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water, Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water

MCLG: 0.07 mg/l

MCL: 0.07 mg/l

Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water: changes in adrenal glands

Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water: discharge from textile finishing factories

Organic Chemicals:

1,1,1-Trichloroethane Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG), Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL), Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water, Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water

MCLG: 0.20 mg/l

MCL: 0.2 mg/l

Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water: liver, nervous system, or circulatory problems

Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water: discharge from metal degreasing sites and other factories

Organic Chemicals:

1,1,2-Trichloroethane Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG), Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL), Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water, Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water

MCLG: 0.003 mg/l

MCL: 0.005 mg/l

Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water: liver, kidney, or immune system problems

Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water: discharge from industrial chemical factories

Organic Chemicals:

Trichloroethylene Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG), Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL), Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water, Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water

MCLG: zero mg/l

MCL: 0.005 mg/l

Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water: liver problems; increased risk of cancer

Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water: discharge from metal degreasing sites and other factories

Organic Chemicals:

Vinyl Chloride Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG), Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL), Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water, Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water

MCLG: zero mg/l

MCL: 0.002 mg/l

Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water: increased risk of cancer

Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water: leaching from PVC pipes; discharge from plastic factories

Organic Chemicals:

Xylenes (total) Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG), Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL), Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water, Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water

MCLG: 10 mg/l

MCL: 10 mg/l

Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water: nervous system damage

Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water: discharge from petroleum factories; discharge from chemical factories

Radionuclides:

Alpha Particles Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG), Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL), Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water, Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water

MCLG: none/zero mg/l

MCL: 15 piocuries per liter (pCi/L)

Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water: increased risk of cancer

Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water: erosion of natural deposits of certain minerals that are radioactive and might emit a form of radiation known as alpha radiation

Radionuclides:

Beta Particles and Photon Emitters Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG), Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL), Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water, Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water

MCLG: none / zero mg/l

MCL: 4 millirems per year

Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water: increased risk of cancer

Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water: decay of natural and manmade deposits of certain minerals that are radioactive and might emit forms of radiation known as photons and beta radiation

Radionuclides:

Radium 226 and Radium 228 (combined) Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG), Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL), Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water, Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water

MCLG: none/ zero mg/l

MCL: 5 pCi/ L

Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water: increased risk of cancer

Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water: erosion of natural deposits

Radionuclides:

Uranium Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG), Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL), Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water, Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water

MCLG: zero mg/l

MCL: 30 ug/L as of 12/08/03

Potential Health Effects from Ingestion of Water: increased risk of cancer, kidney toxicity

Sources of Contaminant in Drinking Water: erosion of natural deposits

• Aluminum 
• Chloride
• Color 
• Copper
• Corrosivity
• Fluoride
• Foaming Agents
• Iron
• Manganese
• Odor
• pH
• Silver
• Sulfate 
• Total Dissolved Solids
• Zinc

U.S. EPA National Secondary Drinking Water Contaminants Standards for Chloride

U.S. EPA National Secondary Drinking Water Contaminants Standards for Color

U.S. EPA National Secondary Drinking Water Contaminants Standards for Copper

U.S. EPA National Secondary Drinking Water Contaminants Standards for Corrosivity

U.S. EPA National Secondary Drinking Water Contaminants Standards for Fluoride

U.S. EPA National Secondary Drinking Water Contaminants Standards for Foaming Agents

U.S. EPA National Secondary Drinking Water Contaminants Standards for Iron

U.S. EPA National Secondary Drinking Water Contaminants Standards for Manganese

MCLG: zero

MCL or TT: TT

MCLG: zero 

MCL or TT: TT

MCLG: n/a

MCL or TT: TT

MCLG: zero

 MCL or TT: TT

MCLG: zero

MCL or TT: 5.0%

MCLG: n/a

MCL or TT: TT

MCLG: zero

MCL or TT: TT

MCLG: zero

MCL or TT: 0.010

MCLG: 0.8

MCL or TT: 1.0

MCLG: n/a

MCL or TT: 0.060

MCLG: none; n/a

MCL or TT: 0.10; 0.080

MCLG: 4

MCL or TT: 4.0

MCLG: 4

MCL or TT: 4

MCLG: 0.8

MCL or TT: 0.8

MCLG: 0.006

MCL or TT: 0.006

MCLG: 0

MCL or TT: 0.010 as of 01/23/06

MCLG: 7 million fibers per liter

MCL or TT: 7MFL

MCLG: 2

MCL or TT: 2

MCLG: 0.004

MCL or TT: 0.004

MCLG: 0.005

MCL or TT: 0.005

MCLG: 0.1

MCL or TT: 0.1

MCLG: 1.3

MCL or TT: TT; Action level= 1.3

MCLG: 0.2

MCL or TT: 0.2

MCLG: 4.0

MCL or TT: 4.0

MCLG: zero

MCL or TT: TT; Action level: 0.015

MCLG: 0.002

MCL or TT: 0.002

MCLG: 10

MCL or TT: 10

MCLG: 1

MCL or TT: 1

MCLG: 0.05

MCL or TT: 0.05 

MCLG: 0.0005

MCL or TT: 0.002

MCLG: zero

MCL or TT: TT

MCLG: zero

MCL or TT: 0.002

MCLG: 0.003

MCL or TT: 0.003

MCLG: zero

MCL or TT: 0.005

U.S. EPA Primary Drinking Water Contaminant Standards for

Benzo(a)pyrene (PAHs) (MCLG & MCL or TT)

MCLG: zero

MCL or TT: 0.002

MCLG: 0.04

MCL or TT: 0.04

MCLG: zero

MCL or TT: 0.005

MCLG: zero

MCL or TT: 0.002

MCLG: 0.1

MCL or TT: 0.1

MCLG: 0.07

MCL or TT: 0.07

MCLG: 0.2

MCL or TT: 0.2 

MCLG: zero

MCL or TT: 0.0002

MCLG: 0.6

MCL or TT: 0.6

MCLG: 0.075

MCL or TT: 0.075

MCLG: zero 

MCL or TT: 0.005

MCLG: 0.007

MCL or TT: 0.007

MCLG: 0.07

MCL or TT: 0.07

MCLG: 0.1

MCL or TT: 0.1

MCLG: zero

MCL or TT: 0.005

MCLG: zero

MCL or TT: 0.005

MCLG: 0.4

MCL or TT: 0.4

MCLG: zero

MCL or TT: 0.006

MCLG: 0.007

MCL or TT: 0.007

MCLG: zero 

MCL or TT: 0.00000003

MCLG: 0.02

MCL or TT: 0.02

MCLG: 0.1

MCL or TT: 0.1

MCLG: 0.002

MCL or TT: 0.002

MCLG: zero 

MCL or TT: TT

MCLG: 0.7

MCL or TT: 0.7

MCLG: zero

MCL or TT: 0.00005

MCLG: 0.7

MCL or TT: 0.7

MCLG: zero

MCL or TT: 0.0004

MCLG: zero

MCL or TT: 0.0002

MCLG: zero

MCL or TT: 0.001

MCLG: 0.05 

MCL or TT: 0.05

MCLG: 0.0002

MCL or TT: 0.0002

MCLG: 0.04

MCL or TT: 0.04

MCLG: 0.2

MCL or TT: 0.2

MCLG: zero

MCL or TT: 0.0005

MCLG: zero

MCL or TT: 0.001

MCLG: 0.5

MCL or TT: 0.5

MCLG: 0.004

MCL or TT: 0.004

MCLG: 0.1

MCL or TT: 0.1

MCLG: zero

MCL or TT: 0.003

MCLG: 1

MCL or TT: 1

MCLG: zero 

MCL or TT: 0.003

MCLG: 0.05

MCL or TT: 0.05

MCLG: 0.07

MCL or TT: 0.07

MCLG: 0.20

MCL or TT: 0.2

MCLG: zero

MCL or TT: 0.002

MCLG: zero

MCL or TT: 0.002

MCLG: 10

MCL or TT: 10

MCLG: none/zero

MCL or TT: 15 picocuries per liter (pCi/L)

 MCLG: none/ zero 

MCL or TT: 4 millirems per year

MCLG: none/zero

MCL or TT: 5 pCi/L

MCLG: zero

MCL or TT: 30 ug/L as of 12/08/03

• PRETREATMENT PROBLEMS AND THEIR SOLUTIONS
• COAGULATION AND FLOCCULATION PROBLEMS AND THEIR SOLUTIONS 
• SEDIMENTATION PROBLEMS AND THEIR SOLUTIONS
• SOFTENING PROBLEMS AND THEIR SOLUTIONS
• STABILIZATION PROBLEMS AND THEIR SOLUTIONS
• FILTRATION PROBLEMS AND THEIR SOLUTIONS
• DISINFECTION PROBLEMS AND THEIR SOLUTIONS
• TASTE AND ODOR PROBLEMS AND THEIR SOLUTIONS
• FLUORIDATION PROBLEMS AND THEIR SOLUTIONS 
• WATER TRANSMISSION SYSTEM PROBLEMS AND THEIR SOLUTIONS 

• Presedimentation basin turbidity increases when source water turbidity and other conditions are unchanged. 
• Presedimentation basin has high turbidity after heavy winter rain.
• Presedimentation basin has high turbidity after heavy summer rain. 
• In summer, gas bubbles rise to surface of source water and leave a small patch of oil-like film. 
• Higher disinfectant demand of presedimentation basin effluent, but turbidity removal is satisfactory.
• Higher coliform and heterotrophic plate count densities are in the presettled water. 
• Fishy and earthy-musty odors from presedimentation basin, but there is no problem with source water. 
• High atrazine in the presettled water. 

PRETREATMENT PROBLEM:

Presediminetation Problem:

Presedimentation basin turbidity increases when source water turbidity and other conditions are unchanged.

Possible Causes:

a) Improper sludge removal. 

b) Sludge Scrapers are stopped. 

c) Polymer feed pump does not feed adequately. 

d) Inadequate polymer dose. Both under and overfeeding can cause high turbidity. Lower does not coagulate all turbidity particles. Excessive overfeeding increases water viscosity, which interferes with settling. 

PRETREATMENT PROBLEM:

Presediminetation Problem:

Presedimentation basin turbidity increases when source water turbidity and other conditions are unchanged.

Possible Solutions:

a) Check sludge blanket level. If too high, increase sludge removal time and frequency. 

b) Check scraper movement to be sure it is working.

c) Check feed pump, setting, and polymer strength. To eliminate polymer diluting problem, feed straight polymer, Adjust feeder for required dose.

d) Run jar test; determine proper dose of polymer; apply it. 

PRETREATMENT PROBLEM:

Presedemintation Problems:

 Presedimentation basin has high turbidity after heavy winter rain.

Presidementation Possible Causes:

 a) Too much sand and silt in water. Turbidity comes from sand and silt caused by ice chunks in the river or stream. Rolling movements of river ice stir bottom sediments that will cause high turbidity. 

b) Insufficient detention time. 

c) Inadequate polymer dose. 

PRETREATMENT PROBLEM:

Presedemintation Problems:

 Presedimentation basin has high turbidity after heavy winter rain.

Possible Solutions:

a) Remove sludge more frequently for longer periods to get rid of heavy solids. This also increases detention time in basin. Check sludge density. Withdrawl period should stop when sludge is thin and watery to reduce unnecessary water wastage. 

b) Allow longer detention time to accommodate for almost-freezing water, which is heavy and subject to slow sedimentation.

c) Run jar test to determine optimum polymer does; too much or too little polymer may be the cause. Avoid feeding polymer over optimum dose. 

PRETREATMENT PROBLEM:

Presedemintation Problems:

 Presedimentation basin has high turbidity after heavy summer rain. 

Possible Causes:

a) Inadequate sludge removal. Sand and silt settle rapidly. Removal of an adequate amount of sludge is important. 

b) Inadequate polymer treatment.

PRETREATMENT PROBLEM:

Presedemintation Problems:

 Presedimentation basin has high turbidity after heavy summer rain. 

POSSIBLE SOLUTIONS:

a) Increase frequency and withdrawal time of sludge to accommodate for high temperatures which increase rate of sedimentation. 

b) Run jar test to determine optimum dose. Apply optimum dose; fine tune dose to achieve best results. A lower polymer dose in summer is better. 

PRETREATMENT PROBLEM:

In summer, gas bubbles rise to surface of source water and leave a small patch of oil-like film. 

POSSIBLE CAUSES: 

a) Anaerobic decomposition of sludge at bottom of water body. Under drought conditions, the oxygen supply at bottom of water body is depleted. 

PRETREATMENT PROBLEM:

In summer, gas bubbles rise to surface of source water and leave a small patch of oil-like film. 

POSSIBLE SOLUTION:

a) To be sure it is not an oil spill, inspect source water; run odor test, and check water for unusual contaminants. 

PRETREATMENT PROBLEM:

Higher disinfectant demand of presedimentation basin effluent, but turbidity removal is satisfactory. 

POSSIBLE CAUSES:

a) High bacterial densities. 

b) Discharge of raw sewage from farm land or other town upstream.

c) Inadequate potassium permanganate (KMnO4) dose. 

PRETREATMENT PROBLEM:

Higher disinfectant demand of presedimentation basin effluent, but turbidity removal is satisfactory. 

POSSIBLE SOLUTIONS:

a) Check coliform count on the settled water. High bacterial count will cause a high demand. Increase predisinfectant dose as required. 

b) Check raw water coliform density. If up, there will be higher demand for disinfectant dose. Check with municipalities upstream. 

c) If KMnO4 is used in presedimentation basin, its dose may be too low. Adjust KMnO4 dose 0.5-1.0 mg/L. KMnO4 will reduce demand by killing miccroorganisms by providing partial disinfection. Too much KMnO4 can cause pink water condition if detention time is short. 

PRETREATMENT PROBLEM:

Higher coliform and heterotrophic plate count densities are in the presettled water. 

Possible Causes:

a) Inadequate predisinfection. 

b) Deficient KMnO4 dose. 

PRETREATMENT PROBLEM:

Higher coliform and heterotrophic plate count densities are in the presettled water. 

Possible Solutions:

a) Check disinfection dose and adjust as required. Also, check for leaks in disinfection line. There might also be an underground leak. 

b) Check KMnO4 feed system and apply required dose. Control bacterial densities before they cause problems at treatment plant. 

PRETREATMENT PROBLEM:

Fishy and earthy-musty odors from presedimentation basin, but there is no problem with source water. 

Possible Causes:

a) Sludge decomposing at the bottom of the basin.

b) Any overflow from a sludge lagoon.

PRETREATMENT PROBLEM:

Fishy and earthy-musty odors from presedimentation basin, but there is no problem with the source water. 

Possible Solutions:

a) If scrapers don't scare sludge deep enough, decomposition will occur. Clean basins and wash with a high-pressure hose at least twice a year. Adjust scrapers. Practice good housekeeping.

b) Check for any such problems and correct. Any stagnant water with sediments in bottom should be noted.

PRETREATMENT PROBLEM:

High atrazine in the presettled water. 

Possible Causes:

a) High atrazine in the source water. This pesticide is applied to control weeds in wheat and sorghum fields. It enters source water after heavy rains in spring and June and July.

b) Low carbon slurry concentration.

c) Incorrect carbon feed setting.

d) Mixer of carbon slurry tank is not working.

PRETREATMENT PROBLEM:

High atrazine in the presettled water. 

Possible Solutions:

a)Monitor atrazine level regularly in source water. Run jar test. Determine the optimum dose of carbon and adjust accordingly.

b) Check slurry concentration of carbon. Adjust does corresponding to slurry concentration.

c) Monitor feed rate and check setting for slurry concentration.

d) Mixer should always be on to keep the carbon suspended.

COAGULATION AND FLOCCULATION PROBLEM:

Poor Floc Formation

Possible Causes:

a) Inadequate coagulation dose.

b) Improper detention time.

COAGULATION AND FLOCCULATION PROBLEM:

Poor Floc Formation

Possible Solutions:

a) Run jar test; determine optimum does and increase coagulant dose as required.

b) Check required detention time by running jar test. Apply needed detention time, if possible, by adjusting flocculator's speed or changing flow rate.

COAGULATION AND FLOCCULATION PROBLEM:

Flakey/Feathery Floc

Possible Causes:

a) Excess lime. [Lime has a low solubility. Excess lime will precipitate as calcium hydroxide and form light floc.]

b) Inadequate coagulant dose. [Coagulants form heavy floc.]

COAGULATION AND FLOCCULATION PROBLEM:

Flakey/Feathery Floc

Possible Solutions:

a) Run jar test; lower lime dose as required.

b) If excess lime dose is desirable, increase the coagulant dose until floc quality is improved.

COAGULATION AND FLOCCULATION PROBLEM:

Poor flocculation when the optimum dose of coagulant is used.

Possible Causes:

a) Improper mixing.

COAGULATION AND FLOCCULATION PROBLEM:

Poor flocculation when the optimum dose of coagulant is used.

Possible Solutions:

a) Check rapid mix and mixer speed; adjust as needed.

COAGULATION AND FLOCCULATION PROBLEM:

Poor floc formation under winter conditions with low water turbidity. 

Possible Causes:

a) Not enough turbidity for an effective flocculation.

b) Improper detention time. Low temperature causes slower coagulation which needs longer detention time.

COAGULATION AND FLOCCULATION PROBLEM:

Poor floc formation under winter conditions with low water turbidity. 

Possible Solutions:

a) Try some weighting coagulant aid like clay or sodium silicate.

b) Determine optimum detention time with jar test; apply it.

COAGULATION AND FLOCCULATION PROBLEM:

Inadequate flocculation of yellowish water. 

Possible Causes:

a) Color of water is due to decomposition of natural organic substances like leaves.

COAGULATION AND FLOCCULATION PROBLEM:

Inadequate flocculation of yellowish water. 

Possible Solutions:

a) Provide low Ph and high dose of coagulant. Alum lowers

Ph by forming sulfuric acid in the water.

COAGULATION AND FLOCCULATION PROBLEM:

Inadequate flocculation of summer water with low turbidity.

Possible Causes:

a) Drought conditions. A lack of proper dilution factor and high concentration of minerals cause poor flocculation conditions.

COAGULATION AND FLOCCULATION PROBLEM:

Inadequate flocculation of summer water with low turbidity.

Possible Solutions:

a) Run jar test by using alum and a weighing coagulant aid that will increase floc density and rate of coagulation by providing nuclei.

COAGULATION AND FLOCCULATION PROBLEM:

Floc settles in coagulation basins.

Possible Causes:

a) Excessive coagulant dose forms heavy floc.

b) Weighting coagulant aid dose is too high.

c) Velocity in basin is too low.

COAGULATION AND FLOCCULATION PROBLEM:

Floc settles in coagulation basins.

Possible Solutions:

a) Run jar test to check coagulant dose and lower it as required.

b) Run jar test with and without coagulant aid to determine if coagulant aid is needed. Lower or stop feeding coagulant aid as required.

c) Check velocity and flocculator's speed. Increase velocity as needed since too low velocity allows sedimentation of floc in basins.

c) Velocity in basin is too low.

SEDIMENTATION PROBLEM:

Poor sedimentation of a normal floc.

Possible Causes:

a) Sludge blanket is too high. This happens when fine sludge is not adequately removed.

b) Too much sludge in the basin. It could be due to less removal and more build-up.

c) The detention time is too short. Not enough time for complete sedimentation.

d) Short-circuiting of flocculated water; occurs in summer and winter due to stratification.

SEDIMENTATION PROBLEM:

Poor sedimentation of a normal floc.

Possible Solutions:

a) Increase withdrawl of sludge until blanket is at least 5 feet below the water surface.

b) Remove sludge until all heavy sludge is removed. Watch sludge density of discharged sludge. Removal should cease when sludge becomes thin and watery.

c) Check detention time and adjust, if possible.

d) Check baffling and mixing mechanisms and increase the mixing.

SEDIMENTATION PROBLEM:

Light feathery-flaky floc scouring into settled water. 

Possible Causes:

a) Inadequate flocculation due to excessive lime usage.

SEDIMENTATION PROBLEM:

Light feathery-flaky floc scouring into settled water. 

Possible Solutions:

a) Reduce lime dose and increase alum dose until floc becomes lighter.

SEDIMENTATION PROBLEM:

Scrapers of sedimentation basin are stopping. 

Possible Causes:

a) Buildup of heavy solids in basin due to inefficient sludge removal.

b) Too much sand and silt in influent water.

c) Some obstructing object such as a tool, piece of wood, or brick in basin.

SEDIMENTATION PROBLEM:

Scrapers of sedimentation basin are stopping. 

Possible Solutions:

a) Open sludge discharge valve; check sludge density; discharge until thin. Set timers to increase frequency and interval of discharge of sludge.

b)Check presettled water turbidity and its nature. If turbidity is due to silt, then increase sludge removal.

c) Drain basin and look for obstructing object.

SEDIMENTATION PROBLEM:

Clouds of floc are in the peripheral part of a solid contact basin.

Possible Causes:

a) If basin is a walker type, the tangential gates are not adjusted properly. If gates are too tight for a flow, they cause a higher velocity to the coagulated water. Floc cloud hits basin wall and moves upward to cause clouds.

b) In case of an accelerator.

SEDIMENTATION PROBLEM:

Clouds of floc are in the peripheral part of a solid contact basin.

Possible Solutions:

a) Open gates until water level in coagulation zone is about two inches higher than that of the flocculation zone. Consult operational manual for proper adjustment of gates.

b) Slow down the central mixer speed. There might be insufficient sludge removal from outer sludge hoppers. Increase sludge removal from outer hoppers.

SEDIMENTATION PROBLEM:

Slurry concentration is too low in solid contact basin.

Possible Causes:

a) In case of an accelerator-like basin.

b) In case of a walker-like basin.

SEDIMENTATION PROBLEM:

Slurry concentration is too low in solid contact basin.

Possible Solutions:

a) Reduce sludge discharge from outer hoppers. Scrappers will bring in finer floc toward center for recirculation.

b) Increase discharge frequency and reduce discharge interval to get rid of heavy solids and retain lighter solids for recirculation. If possible, increase speed of recirculation.

SEDIMENTATION PROBLEMS

• Poor sedimentation of a normal floc.
• Light feathery-flaky floc scouring into settled water.
• Solids are gritty and like white sand.
• Scrappers of sedimentation basin are stopping.
• Clouds of floc are in the peripheral part of a solid contact basin.
• Slurry concentration is too low in solid contact basin.
• In solid contact basin slurry concentration is too high.
• After heavy rain in summer, water does not flocculate and settle in solid contact basin.
• There is poor sedimentation (in solid contact basin) of cold water with low turbidity.

COAGULATION & FLOCCULATION PROBLEMS

• Poor floc formation.
• Flakey-feathery floc.
• Poor flocculation when optimum dose of coagulant is used.
• Poor floc formation under winter conditions with low water turbidity.
• Inadequate flocculation of yellowish water.
• Inadequate flocculation of summer water with low turbidity.
• Floc settles in coagulation basins.

SOFTENING PROBLEMS

• Soda ash does not effectively remove hardness.
• Soda ash line plugs up.
• Soda ash solution is milky and gritty.
• Lime is not effectively softening.
• During winter, softening sludge is heavy, gritty, and like white sand.

FILTRATION PROBLEMS

• Mud balls are in a sand filter.
• Cracks are in the surface mat of a sand filter.
• There is jet action and sand boiling in a mixed media filter.
• There is high turbidity in filter effluent of a conventional treatment plant when all other phases have no problems.
• Surface sweeps are being buried under the media.
• There is biofouling of a membrane.
• There is chemical scaling of the membrane.

• Unable to feed sufficient chlorine.
• Chlorine residual is low and there is no problem with the feed system.
• Chlorine residual is low and THMs are high.
• Chlorine residual is dropping when dose is being increased.
• Ammonia odors are in chloranimated water.
• Chloramines are used for postdisinfection and there is low combined residual chlorine on the tap.
• Chloramines are used for postdisinfection and there is low combined residual chlorine on the tap. (continued) pH of the tap is considerably lower than the filter effluent.
• Chlorine dioxide generator efficiency is low.
• There is a low ozone residual from the generator.
• There is a high ozone demand.

FLUORIDATION  PROBLEMS

• Low fluoride reading when the fluoride dose is correct.
• There is build-up of fluoride in feed lines.
• Feed lines are corroded.

• There is excessive scaling of carbon slurry tank and feed lines.
• Carbon causes high disinfectant demand.
• Suddenly, there is an earthy-musty odor in the water.
• Fishy odors are in the water.
• Water has cucumber odors and metallic dry taste.
• High atrazine is in the presettled water.
• Customer water smells like cat urine.

SEDIMENTATION PROBLEM:

Slurry concentration is too high in solid contact basin.

Possible Causes:

a) In case of an accelerator-like basin.

b) In case of a walker-like basin.

SEDIMENTATION PROBLEM:

Slurry concentration is too high in solid contact basin.

Possible Solutions:

Do the opposite of the previously defined problem. The more the sludge discharge of the fine floc, the lower the slurry concentration, and vice versa.

a) Increase sludge discharge from outer hoppers. Scrappers will bring finer floc toward center for recirculation.

b) Decrease discharge frequency and increase discharge interval to get rid of heavy solids and retain lighter solids for recirculation. If possible, decrease speed of recirculation.

SEDIMENTATION PROBLEM:

After heavy rain in summer, water does not flocculate and settle in solid contact basin. 

Possible Causes:

a) High turbidity and low hardness.

SEDIMENTATION PROBLEM:

After heavy rain in summer, water does not flocculate and settle in solid contact basin.

Possible Solutions:

a) This water can be treated at high pH with normal dose of coagulant (7-10mg/L alum). May need small dose of a polymer. Sludge should be removed efficiently from basins. Sludge is heavy due to silt. Run jar test using a coagulant and a polymer; determine their optimum doses for best results and use the combination.

SEDIMENTATION PROBLEM:

There is poor sedimentation (in solid contact basin) of cold water with low turbidity.

Possible Causes:

a) Low pH.

b) Insufficient detention time. In winter, low temperature will increase the density of the water, which slows down sedimentation process.

c) Insufficent coagulant dose. Colder water needs higher dose of a coagulant for proper sedimentation.

SEDIMENTATION PROBLEM:

There is poor sedimentation (in solid contact basin) of cold water with low turbidity.

Possible Solutions:

a) High pH of the water will help in flocculation and sedimentation by providing OH- ions to react with the coagulant. Add small dose of lime.

b) Increase detention time by reducing flow through the basin. (Put on more basins.)

c) Run jar test; determine required chemical doses and apply them.

SOFTENING PROBLEM:

Soda ash does not effectively remove hardness. 

Possible Causes:

a) Hardess is gone up in the raw water.

b) Lime and soda ash react together before they react with the hardness.

c) Feeder does not feed correctly.

SOFTENING PROBLEM:

Soda ash does not effectively remove hardness. 

Possible Solutions:

a) Run Hardness test; determine right dose by jar test; apply it.

b) Check feed lines because they might be feeding too closely. Feed lime first and soda ash later.

c) Check feeder belt speed; look for any obstruction in feeding system, and correct it.

SOFTENING PROBLEM:

Soda ash line plugs up. 

Possible Causes:

a) Mixing of lime slurry with soda ash solution.

SOFTENING PROBLEM:

Soda ash line plugs up. 

Possible Solutions:

a) Check lines and any other possible mixing of these two chemicals. They react and produce calcium carbonate. Calcium carbonate will deposit in the lines.

SOFTENING PROBLEM:

Soda ash solution is milky and gritty.

Possible Causes:

a) In some way, there is a mixing of some lime with soda ash in the storage bin.

SOFTENING PROBLEM:

Soda ash solution is milky and gritty.

Possible Solutions:

a) Check soda ash bin for any contamination with lime.

SOFTENING PROBLEM:

Lime is not effectively softening.