Question 1

What is Arsenic in drinking water?

Accepted Answer

The EPA tightened the federal arsenic MCL from 50 ppb to 10 ppb in 2006. Areas with naturally high arsenic in groundwater often see periodic MCL exceedances. Switching to a different source or installing point-of-use reverse osmosis is the most reliable mitigation.

Question 2

What is the EPA limit for Arsenic in tap water?

Accepted Answer

The EPA Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) for Arsenic is 0.01 mg/L.

Question 3

How does Arsenic get into drinking water?

Accepted Answer

Erosion of natural deposits, runoff from orchards, runoff from glass and electronics production.

Question 4

What are the health effects of Arsenic in water?

Accepted Answer

Arsenic is a known human carcinogen that occurs naturally in groundwater across many parts of the United States, especially the Southwest and parts of New England. Long-term exposure even at low levels has been linked to bladder, lung, and skin cancer, as well as cardiovascular disease and developmental effects in children.

Arsenic in Drinking Water

Health Effects

Common Sources

Is Arsenic in Your Water?

Other Contaminants

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