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— Frequently Asked Question (FAQ) Result —

We have provided the Question and the Answer to the FAQ that you requested!
QUESTION:  
Can arsenic containing iron oxide residuals that have formed over time within a water distribution system migrate to the tap to cause excessive arsenic exposure and potential health problems?
ANSWER:  
Maybe. The stability of arsenic-containing scale and the mobility of arsenic-containing iron oxide residuals are two issues that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is now addressing. There is a growing concern for arsenic exposure in drinking water and the maximum contaminant level (MCL) has been lowered from 50 to 10 ug/L. Migration of arsenic containing residuals to the tap and dissolution of arsenic from scale are two potential routes for increased levels of arsenic in drinking water. Further studies will determine if this is a real health risk or not.


   
 

 

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This website was developed by the ACES Water Quality Team, under the leadership of Dr. James E. Hairston. It is funded, in part, by USDA-CSREES water quality grant support under Section 406 of the Agricultural Research, Extension and Education Reform Act of 1998.