What Regulations Are In Place For Arsenic Levels In Drinking Water?

In the United States, the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) regulates the amount of arsenic allowed in public water systems. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), which enforces the SDWA, has set a Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) of 10 micrograms per liter (µg/L) for arsenic in drinking water.

This MCL is based on the best available scientific data and takes into account both the health effects of exposure to arsenic and the feasibility of removing it from drinking water. The EPA has determined that concentrations of arsenic above this level pose an unacceptable risk to human health, including an increased risk of cancer and skin lesions.

Public water systems are required to monitor their water regularly for arsenic and ensure that levels do not exceed the MCL. If a system exceeds this limit, they must take action to reduce the arsenic concentration and notify their customers of the issue.

It's worth noting that private wells, which are not regulated by the SDWA, may also contain high levels of arsenic. Homeowners with private wells should have their water tested regularly and take steps to reduce arsenic levels if necessary.