United States
Environmental Protection Office of Water EPA 811-F-95-003-C
Agency , 4603 October 1995
&EPA NATIONAL PRIMARY DRINKING
WATER REGULATIONS
Contaminant Specific Fact Sheets
Synthetic Organic Chemicals - Consumer Version
Adipate, (2-diethylhexyl) Ethylene Dibromide
Alachlor Glyphosate
Aldicarb/Aldicarb Metabolites Heptachlor/Heptachlor
Epoxide
Atrazine Hexaehlorobenzene
Benzo(a)pyrene Hexachlorocyclopentadiene
Carbofuran Lindane
Chlordane Methoxychlor
2,4 - D Oxamyl (Vydate)
Dalapon Pentachlorophenol
Dibromochloropropane Phthalate, di(2-ethyihexyl)
Dinoseb Picloram
Dioxin(2,3,7,8-TCDD) Polychlorinated Biphenyls
Diquat Simazine
Endothall Tpxaphene
Endrin 2,4,5 - TP {Silvex)
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United States
Environmental Protection
Agency
Office of Water
4601
EPA 811-F-95-003 a-C.
October 1995
«*EB\ National Primary Prinking
Water Regulations
Adipate, (2-diethylhexy I)
This is a factsheet about a chemical that may be found in some public
or private drinking water supplies. It may cause health problems if
found in amounts greater than the health standard set by the United
States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
DRINKING WATER
STANDARDS:
MCLG:
MCL:
0.4 PPM
0.4 PPM
WHATIS .
ADIPATE
AND HOW IS IT USED?
WHY is ADIPATE
BEING REGULATED?
WHAT ARE THE
HEALTH EFFECTS?
Adipate is a light-colored, oily liquid with an aromatic odor. It is used in making
plastics. It is also used as a solvent; in aircraft lubricants; as a hydraulic fluid; as
a plasticizer or solvent in the following cosmetics: bath oils, eye shadow, cologne,
foundations, rouge, blusher, nail-polish remover, moisturizers and indoortarining
preparations; in meat wrapping operations.
The list of trade names given below may help you find out whether you are using
this chemical at home or work.
In 1974, Congress passed the Safe Drinking Water Act This law requires EPA
to determine safe levels of chemicals in drinking water which do or may cause
health problems. These non-enforceable levels, based solely on possible health
risks and exposure, are called Maximum Contaminant Level Goals.
The MCLG for adipate has been set at 0.4 parts per million (ppm) because EPA
believes this level of protection would not cause any of the potential health
problems described below.
Based on this MCLG, EPA has set an enforceable standard called a Maximum
Contaminant Level (MCL). MCLs are set as close to the MCLGs as ppssible,
considering the ability of public water systems to detect and remove contaminants
using suitable treatment technologies.
The MCL has been set at 0.4 ppm because EPA believes, given present
technology and resources, this is the lowest level to which water
systems can reasonably be required to remove this contami-
nant should it occur in drinking water.
These drinking water standards and the regulations forensur-
ing these standards are met, are called National Primary
Drinking Water Regulations. All public water supplies must
abide by these regulations.
Short-term: Adipate is not known to cause any health
problems when people are exposed to it at levels above the
MGL for relatively short periods of time.
Long-term: Adipate has the potential to cause the following
effects from a lifetime exposure at levels above the MCL:
reduced body weight and bone rfiass; damage to liver and
TRADE NAMES AND
SYNONYMS:
ADIPOL 2EH
BISOFLEX DOA
EFFOMOLL DOA
KODIFLEXDOA
MONOPLEX DOA
PlASTOMOLL DOA
Sicoi.250
TRUFLEX DOA'
VESTINOL OA
WICKENOL158
WlTAMOL 320
ERGOPLAST AoDO
KEMESTER 5652,
REOMOL DOA
RUCOFLEX DOA
STAFLEXDOA .
October 1995
Consumer Version
Printed on Recycled Paper
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RELEASES TO WATER AND LAND:
1987 TO 1993
Water
TOTALS (in pounds) 27.471
Top Five States*
OH
IN
VA
TN
Ml
531
5,500
1,888
18.480
250
Major Industries*
Gray iron foundries 2,263
Aluminum foundries 250
Rubber, plastic hose/belts 10
Space propulsion units 0
Misc Indust organics 11,996
Land
425,230
173,900
93,275
46,102
26,409
29,750
316,438
50,409
32,078
20,363
131
* Water/Land totals only include facilities with
releases greater than a certain amount - usually
1000 to 10,000 Ibs.
testes; cancer.
Adipate is released in fly ash from mu-
nicipal waste incineration, wastewater ef-
fluents from sewage treatment plants and
chemical manufacturing plants. Since
adipates are known to leach from plumbing
made of PVC plastic, they have been rec-
ognized as a potential drinking water con-
taminant.
From 1987 to 1993, according to EPA's
Toxic Chemical Release Inventory, adi-
pate releases to land and water totalled
over 450,000 Ibs. These releases were
primarily from gray and ductile iron found-
ries. The largest releases occurred in Ohio
and Indiana.
If released to soil or water, adipate is
expected to be broken down by microbes.,It will adhere to sediments in water
bodies and will not leach through soil to ground water. Adipate does not tend to
accumulate or persist in fish but may it may become concentrated in other aquatic
organisms that are unable to metabolize adipate.
The regulation for adipate became effective in 1994. Between 1993 and 1995,
EPA required your water supplier to collect water samples every 3 months for one
year and analyze them to find out if adipate is present above 0.6 ppb. If it is present
above this level, the system must continue to monitor this contaminant.
If contaminant levels are found to be consistently above the MCL, your water
supplier must take steps to reduce the amount of adipate so that it is consistently
below that level. The following treatment methods have been approved by EPA
for removing adipate: Granular activated charcoal.
If the levels of adipate exceed the MCL, 0.4 ppm, the system must notify the
public via newspapers, radio, TV and other means. Additional actions, such as
providing alternative drinking water supplies, may be required to prevent serious
risks to public health. i
How MUCH ADIPATE
IS PRODUCED AND
RELEASED TO THE
ENVIRONMENT?
WHAT HAPPENS TO
ADIPATE
WHEN IT IS RELEASED TO
THE ENVIRONMENT?
HOW WILL
ADIPATE
BE DETECTED IN AND
REMOVED FROM
MY DRINKING WATER?
HOW WILL I KNOW IF
ADIPATE is IN MY DRINK-
ING WATER?
Learn more about your drinking water!
EPA strongly encourages people to leam more
abouttheir drinking water, and to support local efforts
to protect and upgrade the supply of safe drinking
water. Your water bill or telephone book's govern-
ment listings are a good starting 'point.
Your local water supplier can give you a list of the
chemicals they test for in your water, as well as how
your water is treated.
Your state Department of Health/Environment is also a
valuable source of information.
For help in locating these agencies or for information on
drinking water in general, call:
EPA's S;afe Drinking Water Hotline: (800) 426-4791.
For additional information on the uses and releases of
chemicals in your state, contact the:
Community Right-to-Know Hotline: (800) 535-0202.
October 1995
Consumer Version
Page 2
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United States
Environmental Protection
Agency
Office of Water
4601
EPA811-F-95-003 b-C
October 1995
&EFA National Primary Drinking
Water Regulations
Alachlor
This is a factsheet about a chemical that may be found in some public
or private drinking water supplies. It may cause health problems if
found in amounts greater than the health standard set by the United
States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
DRINKING WATER
STANDARDS:
MCLG:
MCL:
ZERO
2PPB
WHAT is
ALACHLOR
AND HOW IS IT USED?
Alachlor is an odorless, white solid. Thegreatest use of alachlor is as a herbicide
for control of annual grasses and broadleaf weeds in crops, primarily on corn,
sorghum and soybeans. Alachlor is the second most widely used herbicide in the
United States, with particularly heavy use on corn and soybeans in Illinois,
Indiana, Iowa, Minnesota, Nebraska, Ohio, and Wisconsin.
The list of trade names given below may help you find out whether you are using
this chemical at home or work. ,
WHY is ALACHLOR
BEING REGULATED?
WHAT ARE THE
HEALTH EFFECTS?
In 1974, Congress passed the Safe Drinking Water Act. This law requires EPA
to determine safe levels of chemicals in drinking water which do or may cause
health problems. These non-enforceable levels, based solely on possible health
risks and exposure, are called Maximum Contaminant Level Goals.
The MCLG for alachlor has been set at zero because EPA believes this level
of protection would not cause any of the long-term effects described below.
Based on this MCLG, EPA has set an enforceable standard called a Maximum
Contaminant Level (MCL). MCLs are set as close to the MCLGs as possible,
considering the ability of public water systems to detect and remove contaminants
using suitable treatment technologies.
The MCL has been set at 2 parts per billion (ppb) because EPA believes, given
present technology and resources, this is the lowest level to which water systems
can reasonably be required to remove this contaminant should it occur in drinking
water.
These drinking water standards and the regulations for ensuring these stan-
dards are met, are called National Primary Drinking Water
Regulations. AH public water supplies fnustabide by these
regulations.
Short-term: EPA has found alachlor to potentially cause
the following health effects when people are exposed to it
at levels above the MCL for relatively short periods of time:
slight skin and eye irritation,
Long-term: Alachlor has the potential to cause the
following effects from a lifetime exposure at levels above
TRADE NAMES AND
SYNONYMS:
ALOCHLOR
LASAGRIN
LASSAGRIN
LASSO
LAZO;
METACHLOR
PlLLARZO
ALANOX
/ ALANEX /
CHIMICHLOR
October1995
Consumer Version
Printed on Recycled Paper
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the MCL: damage to liver, kidney, spleen; lining of nose and eyelids; cancer.
The major source of environmental release of alachlor is through its manufac-
ture and use as a herbicide. Alachlor was detected in rural domestic well water
by EPA's National Survey of Pesticides in Drinking Water Wells. EPA's Pesti-
cides in Ground Water Database reports detections of alachlor in ground water
at concentrations above the MCL in at least 15 States. f
How MUCH ALACHLOR
IS PRODUCED AND
RELEASED TO THE
ENVIRONMENT?
If released to soil, alachlorcan be broken down by bacteria and sunlight, usually
within two months. However, alachor does not bind to most soils very well and
may either evaporate or leach into ground water.
Sunlight and bacterial action are also important for degrading alachlor in
surface water, but evaporation generally does not occur. Once alachlor enters
ground water, its break down is very slow.
The bioconcentration of alachlor "in aquatic organisms is not important. Any
alachlor taken up by plants or animals is quickly eliminated,.
The regulation for alachlor became effective in 1992. Between 1993 and 1995,
EPA required your water supplierto collect water samples every 3 months for one
year and analyze them to find out if alachlor is present above 0.2 ppb. If it is present
above this level, the system must continue to monitor this contaminant.
If contaminant levels are found to be consistently above the MCL, your water
supplier must take steps to reduce the amount of alachlor so that it is consistently
below that level. The following treatment methods have been approved by EPA
for removing alachlor: Granular activated charcoal.
WHAT HAPPENS To
ALACHLOR
WHEN IT IS RELEASED TO
THE ENVIRONMENT?
HOW WILL
ALACHLOR
MY DRINKING WATER?
If the levels exceed the MCL, 2 ppm, the system must notify the public via How WILL I KNOW IF
newspapers, radio, TV and other means. Additional actions, such as providing ALACHLOR is IN MY
alternative drinking water supplies, may be required to prevent serious risks to *
public health.
WATER?
Learn more about your drinking water!
EPA strongly encourages people to leam more
about their drinking water, and to support local efforts
to protect and upgrade the supply of safe drinking
water. Your water bill or telephone book's govern-
ment listings are a good starting point.
YouMocal water supplier can give you a list of the
chemicals they test for in your water,- as well as how
your water is treated.
Your state Department of Health/Environment is also a
valuable source of information.
For help in locating these agencies or for infbrmation on
drinking water in general, call:
EPA's Safe Drinking Water Hotline: (800) 426-4791.
For additional information on the uses and releases of
chemicals in your state, contact the:
Community Right-to-Know Hotline: (800) 535-0202.
October 1995
Consumer Version
Page 2
-------
United States
Environmental Protection
Agency
Office of Water
4601
EPA 811-F-9 5-003 c-C
October 1995
&EPA National Primary Drinking
Water Regulations
Aldicarb and its by-products
This is a factsheet about a chemical that may be found in some public
or private drinking water supplies. It may cause health problems If
found in amounts greater than the health standard set by the United
States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
DRINKING WATER
STANDARDS:
MCLG:
Mel:
1 PPB
3 PPB
WHAT is
ALDICARB
AND HOW IS IT USED?
Aidicarb is a white crystalline solid with a sulfurous odor. Aidicarb is an
insecticide applied to the soil for control of chewing & sucking insects like aphids
and on nematodes. It is used in glasshouse & outdoor ornamentals, and on crops:
primarily cotton, but also sugar beet, strawberries, potatoes, onions, hops, and
others.
The list of trade names given below may help you find out whether you are using
this chemical at home or work.
WHY is ALDICARB
BEING REGULATED?
In 1974, Congress passed the Safe Drinking Water Act. This law requires EPA
to determine safe levels of chemicals in drinking water which do or may cause
health problems. These non-enforceable levels, based solely on possible health
risks and exposure, are called Maximum Contaminant Level Goals (MCLGs).
The MCLG for aldicarb has been set at 1 part per billion (ppb) because EPA
believes this level of protection would not cause any of the potential health
problems described below. MCLGs have also been set for aldicarb sulfone and
aldicarb sulfoxide, since aldicarb quickly breaks down into these chemicals once
it is applied to crops..
Based on this MCLG, EPA has set an enforceable standard called a Maximum
Contaminant Level (MCL). MCLs are set as close to the MCLGs as possible,
considering the ability of public water systems to detect and remove contaminants
using suitable treatment technologies.
The MCL has been set at 3 ppb because EPA believes, given present
technology and resources, this is the lowest level to which water systems can
reasonably be required to remove this contaminant should it occur in drinking
water.
These drinking water standards and the regulations for ensuring these stan-
dards are met, are called National Primary Drinking Water
regulations. MII puoiic waier supplies must aoiae Dy tnese
regulations.
AT ARE THE Short-term: EPA has found aldicarb or its breakdown prod-
U.TH EFFECTS? ucts to potentially cause the following health effects when
people are/exposed to it at levels above the MCL for relatively
TRADE NAMES AND
SYNONYMS:
TEMIK
CARBAMYL
CARBANOLATE;
C* it crtMC
• OULrUNc
ALDOXYCARB
UNION CARBIDE
->"** •
October 1995
Consumer Version
Printed on Recycled Paper
-------
short periods of time: nausea, diarrhea and relatively minor neurological symp-
toms. These effects are reversible.
Long-term: Aldicarb has the potential to cause the following effects from a
lifetime exposure at levels above the MCL: sweating, constricted eye pupils and
leg weakness.
Release of aldicarb to the environment will occur due to its manufacture and use
as a systemic insecticide, ascaricide and nematocide for soil use. As the result
of the aldicarb contamination of drinking water wells, Union Carbide Corporation
excluded the use of aldicarb products in Suffolk County, Long Island, New York.
The company also limited the use of aldicarb products to once every two years
and only after plant emergency in the States of Maine and Wisconsin and the
Counties of Hartford in Connecticut, Kent and New Castle in Delaware, Franklin
and Hampshire in Massachusetts, Worchester in Maryland, Atlantic, Burlington,
Cumberland, Monmouth and Salem in New Jersey, Newport and Washington in
Rhode Island, and Accomack and Northampton in Virginia.
Aldicarb may be applied at planting for aphid control in the State of Maine.
How MUCH ALDICARB
IS PRODUCED AND
RELEASED TO THE
ENVIRONMENT?
If aldicarb is released to the soil it should not bind to the soil. Microbes and
chemicals in soils will breakdown aldicarb into its metabolites, aldicarb sulfoxide
and aldicarb sulfone. It tends to persist in soils for up to 15 days. Aldicarb may
leach to the groundwater in some soils where the rates of breakdown are relatively
slow, as in acidic soils. If aldicarb is released to water it should not adsorb to
sediments or bioconcentrate in aquatic organisms. It tends to persist in water
longer than in soil.
WHAT HAPPENS TO
ALDICARB
WHEN IT IS RELEASED TO
THE ENVIRONMENT?
NOTE: The MCLs for aldicarb and its metabolites are not in effect at How WILL
present By December 31 1995, your water supplier must have completed its ALDICARB
collection of a series of water samples - every 3 months for one year- and analyze
them to find out if aldicarb or its metabolites are present.
BE DETECTED IN AND
REMOVED FROM
MY DRINKING WATER?
Learn more about your drinking water!
EPA strongly encourages people to learn more Your state Department of Health/Environment is also a
abouttheir drinking water, and to support local efforts valuable source of information.
to protect and upgrade the supply of safe drinking For he|p jn locating these agencies or for information on
water. Your water bill or telephone book's govern- drinking Water in general, call:
ment listings are a good starting point. EPA«S Safe Drinking Water Hotline: (800) 426-4791.
Your local water supplier can give you a list of the For addjtjona| information on the uses and releases of
chemicals they test for in your water, as well as how chemicals in your state, contact the:
your water is treated. Community Right-to-Know Hotline: (800) 535-0202.
October 1995
Consumer Version
Page 2
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United States •
Environmental Protection
Agency
Office of Water
4601
EPA811-F-95-003 d-C
October 1995
-S-EFA National Primary Drinking
Water Regulations
Atrazine
This is a factsheet about a chemical that may be found in some public
or private drinking water supplies. It may cause health problems if
found in amounts greater than the health standard set by the United
States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
DRINKING WATER
STANDARDS:
MCLG:
MCL:
3 PPB
3 PPB
WHAT is
ATRAZINE
AND HOW IS IT USED?
Atrazine is a white* crystalline solid organic compound. It is a widely used
herbicide for control of broadleaf and grassy weeds. Atrazine was estimated to be
the most heavily used herbicide in the United States in 1987/89, with its most
extensive use for corn and soybeans in Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri,
Nebraska, Ohio, Texas, and Wisconsin. Effective in 1993, its uses were greatly
restricted. ' .
The list of trade names given below may help you find out whether you are using
this chemical at home or work.
WHY is ATRAZINE
BEING REGULATED?
WHAT ARE THE
HEALTH EFFECTS?
In 1974, Congress passed the Safe Drinking Water Act. This law requires EPA
to determine safe levels of chemicals in drinking water which do or may cause
health problems. These non-enforceable levels, based solely
on possible health risks and exposure, are called Maximum
Contaminant Level Goals.
The MCLG for atrazine has been set at 3 parts per billion (ppb)
because EPA believes this level of protection would not pause
any of the health effects described below.
Based on this MCLG, EPA has set an enforceable standard
called a Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) MCLs are set as
close to the MCLGs as possible, considering the ability of public
water systems to detect and remove contaminants using suit-
able treatment technologies.
The MCL has been set at 3 ppb because EPA believes, given
present technology and resources, this is the lowest level to
which water systems can reasonably be required to remove this
contaminant should it occur in drinking water.
These drinking water standards and the regulations for ensur-
ing these standards are met, are called National Primary Drink-
ing Water Regulations. All public water supplies must abide by
these regulations.
Short-term: EPA has found.atrazine to potentially cause the
following health effects when people are exposed to it at levels
TRADE NAMES AND
SYNONYMS:
AATREX
ACTINITE PK
AKTICON
ARGEZIN
ATAZINAX
ATRANEX
ATRATAF - .
ATRED
CANDEX
CEKUZINA-T
CHROMOZIN
CRISATRINA
CYAZIN
FENAMIN
FENATROL
GESAPRIM
GRIFFEX
HUNGAZIN
INAKOR
PITEZIN
PRIMATOL
RADAZIN
STRAZINE
VECTAL
WEEDEX A
WONUK
ZEAPOS
ZEAZINE
October 1995
Consumer Version.
Printed on Recycled Paper
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above the MCLfor relatively short periods of time: congestion of heart, lungs and
kidneys; low blood pressure; muscle spasms; weight loss; damage to adrenal
glands. ". •
Long-term: Atrazine has the potential to cause the following effects from a
lifetime exposure at levels above the MCL: weight loss, cardiovascular damage,
retinal and some muscle degeneration; cancer. ,
Atrazine may be released to the environment in wastewater from manufactur-
ing facilities and through its use as a herbicide. Atrazine was the second most
frequently detected pesticide in EPA's National Survey of Pesticides in Drinking
Water Wells. EPA's Pesticides in Ground Water Database indicates numerous
detections of atrazine at concentrations above the MCL in ground water in several
States, including Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota,
Missouri, Nebraska and New York.
How MUCH ATRAZINE
IS PRODUCED AND
RELEASED TO THE
ENVIRONMENT?
Microbial activity and other chemicals may breakdown atrazine in soil and
water, particularly in alkaline conditions. Sunlight and evaporation do not reduce
Its presence. It may bind to some soils, but generally tends to leach to ground
water.
Atrazine is not likely to be taken up in the tissues of plants or animals.
The regulation for atrazine became effective in 1992. Between 1993 and 1995,
EPA required your water supplier to collect water samples every 3 months for one
year and analyze them to find out if atrazine is present above 1 ppb. If it is present
above this level, the system must continue to monitor this contaminant.
If contaminant levels are found to be consistently above the MCL, your water
supplier must take steps to reduce the amount of atrazine so that it is consistently
below that level. The following treatment methods have been approved by EPA
for removing atrazine: Granular activated charcoal.
WHAT HAPPENS TO
ATRAZINE
WHEN IT IS RELEASED TO
THE ENVIRONMENT?
HOW WILL
ATRAZINE
BE DETECTED IN AND
REMOVED FROM
MY DRINKING WATER?
If the levels of atrazine exceed the MCL, 3 ppb, the system must notify the public
via newspapers, radio, TV and other means. Additional actions, such as providing
alternative drinking water supplies, may be required to prevent serious risks to
public health.
HOW WILL I KNOW IF
ATRAZINE is IN MY
DRINKING WATER?
Learn more about your drinking water!
EPA strongly encourages people to learn more Your state Department of Health/Environment is also, a
abouttheirdrinking water, and to support local efforts valuable source of information.
to protect and upgrade the supply of safe "drinking For help in |ocatjng these agencies or for information on
water. Your water bill or telephone book's govern- drink|ng water in general, call:
ment listings are a good starting point. EPA's Safe Drinking Water Hotline: (800)426-4791.
Your local water supplier can give you a list of the For additional information on the uses and releases of
chemicals they test for in your water, as well as how chemicals in your state, contact the:
your water is treated. Community Right-to-Know Hotline: (800) 535-0202.
October 1995
Consumer Version
Page 2
-------
United States
Environmental Protection
Agency
Office of Water
4601
EPA811-F-95-003 e-C
October 1995
&EPA National Primary Drinking
Water Regulations
Benzo(a)pyrene
This is a factsheet about a chemical that may be found in some public
or private drinking water supplies. It may cause health problems if
found in amounts greater than the health standard set by the United
States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
DRINKING WATER
STANDARDS:
MCLG:
MCL:
ZERO
0.2 PPB
WHAT is
BENZO(A)PYRENE
AND HOW IS IT USED?
Benzo(a)pyrene, or BaP, is one of a group of compounds called polyeyclic
aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). They are not produced or used commercially but
are very commonly found since they are formed as a result of incomplete
combustion of organic materials.
WHY is
BENZO(A)PYRENE
BEING REGULATED?
WHATARETHE
HEALTH EFFECTS?
In 19/4, Congress passed the Safe Drinking Water Act. This law requires EPA
to determine safe levels of chemicals in drinking water which do or may cause
health problems/These non-enforceable levels, based .solely on possible health
risks and exposure, are called Maximum Contaminant Level Goals.
The MCLG for benzo(a)pyrene has beeri set at zero because EPA believes this
level of protection would not cause any of the potential health problems described
below.
Based on this MCLG, EPA has set an enforceable standard called a Maximum
Contaminant Level (MCL). MCLs are set as close to the MCLGs as possible,
considering the ability of public water systems to detect and remove contaminants
using suitable treatment technologies.
The MCL has been set at 0.2 ppb because EPA believes, given present
technology and resources, this is the lowest level to which water systems can
reasonably be required to remove this contaminant should it occur in drinking
water.
These drinking water standards and the regulations for ensuring these stan-
dards are met, are called National Primary Drinking Water Regulations. All public
water supplies must abide by these regulations.
Short-term: EPA has found benzo(a)pyrene to potentially cause the following
health effects when people are exposed to it at levels above the MCL for relatively
short periods of time: red blood cell damage, leading to anemia;
suppressed immune system. .
Long-term: Benzo(a)pyrene has the potential to cause the
following effects from a lifetime exposure at levels above the
MCL: developmental and reproductive effects; cancer.
TRADE NAMES AND
SYNONYMS:
BAP
3,4-BENZ(A)PYRENE
October 1995
Consumer Version
Printed on Recycled Paper
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PAHs are found in exhaust from motor vehicles and other gasoline and diesel
engines, emission from coal-, oil-, and wood-burning stoves and furnaces,
cigarette smoke; general soot and smoke of industrial, municipal, and domestic
origin, and cooked foods, especially charcoal-broiled; in incinerators, coke ovens,
and asphalt processing and use.
There are two major sources of PAHs in drinking water: 1) contamination of raw
water supplies from natural and man-made sources, and 2) leachate from coal
tar and asphalt linings in water storage tanks and distribution lines. PAHs in raw
water will tend to adsorb to any particulate matter and be removed by filtration
before reaching the tap.
PAHs in tap water will mainly be due to the presence of PAH-containing
materials in water storage and distribution systems. Though few data are
available for estimating the potential for PAH release to water from these
materials, there are reports that levels can reach 0.01 mg/L with optimum leaching,
conditions.
How MUCH
BENZO(A)PYRENE
IS PRODUCED AND
RELEASED TO THE
ENVIRONMENT?
Released benzo(a)pyrene is moderately persistent in the environment. It WHATHAPPENSTO
readily binds to soils and should not leach to ground water, though it has been BENZO(A)PYRENE
detected in some ground water. If released to water, it will adsorb very strongly WHEN IT is RELEASED TO
to sediments and particulate matter. In most waters and in sediments it will resist
breakdown by microbes or reactive chemicals, but it may evaporate or be
degraded by sunlight. Benzo(a)pyrene is expected to biocoricentrate in aquatic
organisms that can not metabolize it, including plankton, oysters and some fish.
THE ENVIRONMENT?
The regulation for BaP became effective in 1994. Between 1993 and 1995, EPA
required yourwater supplierto collect water samples every 3 months for one year
and analyze them to find out if BaP is present above 0.02 ppb. If it is present above
this level, the system must continue to monitor this contaminant.
If contaminant levels are found to be consistently above the MCL, your water
supplier must take steps to reduce the amount of BaP so that it is consistently
below that level. The following treatment methods have been approved by EPA
for removing BaP: Granular activated charcoal.
HOW WILL
BENZO(A)PYRENE
BE DETECTED IN AND
REMOVED FROM
MY DRINKING WATER?
If the levels of BaP exceed the MCL, 0.2 ppb, the system must notify the public How WILL I KNOW IF
via newspapers, radio, TV and other means. Additional actions, such as providing BENZO(A)PYRENE is IN MY
alternative drinking water supplies, may be required to prevent serious risks to DRINKING WATER.
public health. . ,
Learn more about your drinking water!
EPA strongly encourages people to leam more
about their drinking water, and to support local efforts
to protect and upgrade the supply of safe drinking
water. Your water bill or telephone book's govern-
ment listings are a good starting point.
Your local water supplier can give you a list of the
chemicals they test for in your water, as well as how
your water is treated.
Your state Department of Health/Environment is also a
valuable source of information.
For help in locating these agencies or for information on
drinking water in general, call:
ERA'S Safe Drinking Water Hotline: (800) 426-4791.
For additional information on the uses and .releases of
chemicals in your state, contact the:
Community Right-to-Knbw Hotline: (800) 535-0202.
October 1995
Consumer Version
Page 2
-------
United States
Environmental Protection
Agency
Office of Water
4601
EPA 811-F-95-OO3 f-C
October 1995
«£B^ National Primary Drinking
Water Regulations
Carbofuran
This Is a factsheet about a chemical that may be found in some public
or private drinking water supplies. It may cause health problems if
found in amounts greater than the health standard set by the United
States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
DRINKING WATER
STANDARDS:
MCLG:
MCL:
40 PPB
,40 PPB
WHAT is
CARBOFURAN
AND HOW IS IT USED?
Carbofuran is a white crystalline solid with a slightly phenolic odor. This broad
spectrum insecticide is sprayed directly onto sofl and plants just after emergence
to control beetles, nematodes and rootworm. The greatest use of carbofuran is on
alfalfa and rice, with turf and grapes making up most of the remainder. Earlier uses
were primarily on corn crops.
Carbofuran is allowed for use on only a few U.S. crops, and will soon be banned
from use on corn and sorghum in California.
The list of trade names given below may helpyou find out whetheryou are using
this chemical at home or work.
WHY is CARBOFURAN
BEING REGULATED?
WHAT ARE THE
HEALTH EFFECTS?
In 1974, Congress passed the Safe Drinking Water Act. This law requires EPA
to determine safe levels of chemicals in drinking water which do or may cause
health problems. These non-enforceable levels, based solely on possible health
risks and exposure, are called Maximum Contaminant Level Goals.
The MCLG for carbofuran has been set at 40 parts per billion (ppb) because
EPA believes this level of protection would not cause any of the potential health
problems described below.
Based on this MCLG, EPA has set an enforceable standard called a Maximum
Contaminant Level (MCL). MCLs are set as close to the MCLGs as possible,
considering the ability of public water systems to detect and remove contaminants
using suitable treatment technologies.
The MCL has also been set at 40 ppb because EPA believes, given present
technology and resources, this is the lowest level to which water
systems can reasonably be required to remove this contaminant
should it occur in drinking water.
These drinking water standards and the regulations forensuring
these standards are met, are called National Primary Drinking
Water Regulations. All public water supplies must abide by these
regulations.
Short-term: EPA has found carbofuran to potentially cause the
following health effects when people are exposed to it at levels
above the MCL for relatively short periods of time: headache,
TRADE NAMES AND
SYNONYMS:
NIAGARA 10242
FURADAN 4H OR
3G
BRIFUR
CRISFURAN
CHINUFUR
CURATERR
YALTOX
PlLLARFURAN
KENOFURAN
October 199B
Consumer Version
Printed on Recycled Paper
-------
sweating, nausea, diarrhea, chest pains, blurred vision, anxiety and general
muscular weakness. These effects are reversible.
Long-term: Carbofuran has the potential to cause the following health effects
from long-term exposures at levels above the MCL: damage to the nervous and
reproductive systems.
Carbofuran enters surface water as a result of runoff from treated fields and
enters ground water by leaching of treated crops,
EPA's 1990 National Pesticide Survey did not detect carbofuran levels above
the MCL in rural domestic wells or Community Water System wells. EPA's
Pesticides in Ground Water Database found very low levels of carbofuran in
ground water between 1971 and 1991.. .
If released to soil or water, carbofuran will be broken down by reactive
chemicals and microbes, particularly in alkaline conditions. Carbofuran may
leach significantly in many soils, as has been seen in the detection of carbofuran
in sandy aquifers in NY and Wl. Leaching may not occur, however, in very high
organic content soils. It is not expected to accumulate in aquatic organisms.
The regulation for carbofuran became effective in 1992. Between 1993 and
1995, EPA required your water supplier to collect water samples every 3 months
for one year and analyze them to find out if carbofuran is present above 0.9 ppb.
If it is present above this level, the system must continue to monitor this
contaminant.
If contaminant levels are found to be consistently above the MCL, your water
supplier must take steps to reduce the amount of carbofuran so that it is
consistently below that level. The following treatment methods have been
approved by EPA for removing carbofuran: Granular activated charcoal.
If the levels of carbofuran exceed the MCL, 40 ppb, the system must notify the
public via newspapers, radio, TV and other means. Additional actions, such as
providing alternative drinking water supplies, may be required to prevent serious
risks to public health.
How is CARBOFURAN
RELEASED TO THE
ENVIRONMENT?
WHAT HAPPENS TO
CARBOFURAN
WHEN IT IS RELEASED
TO THE ENVIRONMENT?
HOW WILL
CARBOFURAN
BE DETECTED IN AND
REMOVED FROM'
MY DRINKING WATER?
HOW WILL I KNOW IF
CARBOFURAN is IN MY
DRINKING WATER?
Learn more about your drinking water!
EPA strongly encourages people to leam more Your state Department of Health/Environment is also a
about their drinking water, and to support local efforts valuable source of information.
to protect and upgrade the supply of safe drinking For he|p jn |ocating these agencies or for information on
water. Your water bill or telephone book's govern- drinking water in general, call:
ment listings are a good starting point. EPA's Safe Drinking Water Hotline: (800) 426-4791.
Your local water supplier can give you a list of the por additional information on the uses and releases of
chemicals they test for in your water, as well as how chemicals in your state, contact the:
your water is treated. Community Right-to-Know Hotline: (800) 535-0202.
October 1995
Consumer Version
rage *
-------
United States
Environmental Protection
Agency
Office of Water
4601
EPA 811-F-95-003 g-C
October 1995
<®EPA National Primary Drinking
Water Regulations
Chlordane
This is a factsheet about a chemical that may be found in some public
or private drinking water supplies. It may cause health problems if
found in amounts greater than the health standard set by the United
States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
DRINKING WATER
STANDARDS:
MCLG: ZERO
MCL: 2 PPB
WHAT is
CHLORDANE
AND HOW IS IT USED?
Chlordane is a viscous liquid, colorless to amber, with a slight chlorine-like
aromatic odor. It was used on corn, citrus, deciduous fruits and nuts, vegetables;
for home, garden and ornamentals; lawns, turf, ditchbanks and roadsides. It was
applied directly to soil or foliage to control a variety of insect pests including
parasitic roundworms and other nematpdes, termites, cutworms, chiggers, leaf-
hoppers. The only commercial use of chlordane products still permitted is for fire
ant control in power transformers.
The list of trade names given below may help you find out whether you are using
this chemical at home or work.
WHY is CHLORDANE
BEING REGULATED?
WHAT ARE THE
HEALTH EFFECTS?
In 1974, Congress passed the Safe Drinking Water Act. This law requires EPA
to determine safe levels of chemicals in drinking water which do or may cause
health problems. These non-enforceable levels, based solely on possible health
risks and exposure, are called Maximum Contaminant Level Goals.
The MCLG for chlordane has been set at zero because EPA
believes this level of protection would not cause any of the
potential health problems described below.
Based on this MCLG, EPA has set an enforceable standard
called a Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL). MCLs are set as
close to the MCLGs as possible, considering the ability of public
water systems to detect and remove contaminants using suitable
treatment technologies.
The MCL has been set at 2 parts per billion (ppb) because EPA
believes, given present technology and resources, this is the
lowest level to which water systems can .reasonably be required
to remove this contaminant should it occur in drinking water.
These drinking water standards and the regulations for ensur-
ing these standards are met, are called National Primary Drinking
Water Regulations. All public water supplies must abide by these
regulations.
Short-term: EPA has found chlordane to potentially cause the
following health effects when people are exposed to it at levels
TRADE NAMES AND
SYNONYMS:
VELSICOL 1068
ASPON-
CHLORDANE
BELT
CHLORINDAN
CHLOR-KIL
CORTILAN-NEU
DOWCHLOR
OKTACHLOR
OKTATERR
SYNKLOR
TAT CHLOR 4
TOPICLOR
TOXICHLOR
INTOX 8
'GOLD CREST C-
100
KILEX
. KYPCHLOR
NIRAN
TERMI-DED
PRENTOX
PENTIKLOR
October 1995
Consumer Version
Printed on Recycled Paper
-------
above the MCLfor relatively short periods of time: central nervous system effects
-including irritability, excess salivation, labored breathing, tremors, convulsions,
deep depression - and blood system effects such as anemia and certain types of
leukemia.
Long-term: Chlordane has the potential to cause the following effects from a
lifetime exposure at levels above the MCL: damage to liver, kidneys, heart, lungs,
spleen and adrenal glands; cancer.
Chlordane has been released into the environment primarily from its application
as an insecticide. The amount of chlordane used annually in the US prior to 1983
was estimated in 1985 to be greater that 3.6 million pounds. As of April 14,1988,
however, all commercial use of chlordane in the US has been cancelled.
Chlordane may persist for long periods of time in air, soil and water. Though
chlordane tends to adhere to soil, its detection in various groundwaters in NJ and
elsewhere indicates that it can leach to groundwater. It is only very slowly broken
down by microbes. Chlordane has been detected in air samples in remote areas
such as over the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans, and in the Arctic.
Chlordane has a great tendency to accumulate in aquatic organisms, but there
is evidence that this is reversible once exposure is stopped.
The regulation for chlordane became effective in 1992. Between 1993 and
1995, EPA required your water supplier to collect water samples every 3.months
for one year and analyze them to find out if chlordane is present above 0.2 ppb.
If it is present above this level, the system must continue to monitor this
contaminant.
If contaminant levels are found to be consistently above the MCL, your water
supplier must take steps to reduce the amount of chlordane so that it is
consistently below that level. The following treatment methods have been
approved by EPA for removing chlordane: granular activated charcoal.
*
If the levels of chlordane exceed the MCL, 2 ppb, the system must notify the
public via newspapers, radio, TV and other means. Additional actions, such as
providing alternative drinking water supplies, may be required to prevent serious
risks to public health.
How MUCH CHLORDANE
IS PRODUCED AND
RELEASED TO THE
ENVIRONMENT?
WHAT HAPPENS TO
CHLORDANE
WHEN IT IS RELEASED TO
THE ENVIRONMENT?
How WILL
CHLORDANE
BE DETECTED IN AND
REMOVED FROM
MY DRINKING WATER?
HOW WILL I KNOW IF
CHLORDANE is IN MY
DRINKING WATER?
Learn more about your drinking water!
EPA strongly encourages people to leam more
about theirdrinking water, and to support local efforts
to protect and upgrade the supply of safe drinking
water. Your water bill or telephone book's govern-
ment listings are a good starting point.
Your local water supplier can give you a list of the
chemicals they test for in your water, as well as how
your water is treated.
Your state? Department of Health/Environment is also a
valuable source of information. -
For help in locating these agencies or for information on
drinking water in general, call:
EPA's Safe Drinking Water Hotline: (800) 426-4791.
For additional information on the uses and releases of
chemicals in your state, contact the:
Community Right-to-Know Hotline: (800) 535-0202.
October 1995
Consumer Version
rage
-------
United States
Environmental Protection
Agency
Office of Water
4601
EPA811-F-95-OQ3 h-C
October 1995
National Primary Drinking
Water Regulations
2,4- D
This is a factsheet about a chemical that may be found in some public
or private drinking water supplies. It may cause health problems if
found in amounts greater than the health standard set by the United
States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
DRINKING WATER
STANDARDS:
MCLG:
MCL:
?OPPB
70 PPB ,
WHAT is
2,4-D
AND HOW IS IT USED?
WHY is 2,4-D
BEING REGULATED?
WHAT ARE THE
HEALTH EFFECTS?
Short-term: EPA has found 2,4-D to potentially cause the
following health effects when people are exposed to it at levels
above the MCL for relatively short periods of time: nervous
system damage.
Long-term: 2,4-D has the potential to cause the following
TRADE NAMES AND
SYNONYMS:
"AGENT WHITE"
BLADEX-B
BRUSH KILLER 64
DICOFUR ,
OORMON
IPANER
MOXON
NETAGRONE
PIEUK
VERTON 38
MOTA MASKROS
SILVAPROP 1 .
AGRICORN D
ACMELV4
CROPRIDEI*
FERNESTA
LAWN-KEEP
PENNAMINE D
PLANTGARD
TRIBUTON
WEED-B-GON
WEEDATUL
AGROXONE
WEEDAR
SALVO
GREEN CROSS
WEED-NO-MORE 80
RED DEVIL DRY
WEEDKILLER
SCOTT'S 4XD
WEED-RHAP LV40
WEEDONE 100
2,4-DlCHLORO-
PHENOXYACETIC ACID
2,4-D is a colorless, odorless pOwder used as a herbicide for the control of
broad-leaf weeds in agriculture, and for control of woody plants along roadsides,
railways, and utilities rights of way. It has been most widely used on such crops'
as wheat and corn, and on pasture and rangelands.
The list of trade names given below may help you find out whether you are using
this chemical at home or work.
In 1974, Congress passed the Safe Drinking Water Act. This
law requires EPA to determine safe levels of chemicals in
drinking water which do or may cause health problems. These
non-enforceable levels, based solely on possible health risks
and exposure, are called Maximum Contaminant Level Goals.
The MCLG for 2,4-D has been set at 70 parts per billion (ppb)
because EPA believes this level of protection would not cause
any of the potential health problems described below.
Based on this MCLG, EPA has set an enforceable standard
called a Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL). MCLs are set as
close to the MCLGs as possible, considering the ability of
public water systems to detect and remove contaminants
using suitable treatment technologies. ,
The MCL has been set at 70 ppb because EPA believes,
given present technology and resources, this is the lowest
level to which water systems can reasonably be required to
remove this contaminant should it occur in drinking water
These drinking water standards and the regulations for
ensuring these standards are met, are called National Primary
Drinking Water Regulations. All public water supplies must
abide by these regulations.
October 1995
Consumer Version
Printed oirRecycled Paper
-------
RELEASES TO WATER AND LAND:
1987 TO 1993
Water
TOTALS (in pounds) 3,444
Top Five States
HI
FL
MO
Ml
TX
Ma/or Industries
Cane sugar
Agri. chems.
Plastics, resins
Misc. manufact.
Gen. Chemical
0
5
1.817
822
800
0
2,616
696
0
126
Land
113,358
73,679
38,456
0
8
0
99,886
815
0
400
8
"Water/Land totals only include facilities with
releases greater than a certain amount- usually
1000 to 10.000 Ibs.
effects from a lifetime exposure at levels
above the MCL: damage to the nervous
system, kidneys and liver.
Production of 2,4-D was 45.1 million Ibs
in 1982.1991 data indicates only that pro-
duction exceeded 5000 Ibs. Major environ-
mental releases of 2,4-D are due to agricul-
tural applications of systemic herbicides. It
is also released as a result of the production
or disposal of 2,4-D or its by-products.
From 1987 to 1993, according to EPA's
Toxic Chemical Release Inventory, 2,4-D
releases to land and water totalled over
116,000 Ibs. These releases were primarily
from cane sugar-related industries (except
refineries). The largest releases occurred
in Hawaii.
2,4-D is readily degraded by microbes in soil and water. Leaching to ground
water may occur in coarse-grained sandy soils with low organic content or with
very basic soils. In general little runoff occurs with 2,4-D or its amine salts. There
is no evidence that bioconcentration of 2,4-D occurs through the food chain. This
has been known from large-scale monitoring studies of soils, foods, feedstuffs,
wildlife, human beings, and from other environmental cycling studies.
The regulation for 2,4-D became effective in 1992. Between 1993 and 1995,
EPA required yourwatersupplierto collect water samples every 3 months for one
year and analyze them to find out if 2,4-D is present above 0.5 ppb. If it is present
above this level, the system must continue to monitor this contaminant.
If contaminant levels are found to be consistently above the MCL, your water
supplier must take steps to reduce the amount of 2,4-D so that it is consistently
below that level. The following treatment methods have been approved by EPA
for removing 2,4-D: Granular activated charcoal.
If the levels of 2,4-D exceed the MCL, 70 ppb, the system must notify the public
via newspapers, radio, TV and other means. Additional actions, such as providing
alternative drinking water supplies,, may be required to prevent serious risks to
public health. . .
How MUCH 2,4-D
IS PRODUCED AND
RELEASED TO THE
ENVIRONMENT?
WHAT HAPPENS TO
2,4-D
WHEN IT IS RELEASED TO
THE ENVIRONMENT?
HOW WILL
2,4-D
BE DETECTED IN AND
REMOVED FROM
MY DRINKING WATER?
HOW WILL I KNOW IF
2,4-D is IN MY DRINKING
WATER?
Learn more about your drinking water!
EPA strongly encourages people to learn more Your state Department of Health/Environment is also a
abouttheir drinking water, and to support local efforts valuable source of information.
to protect and upgrade .the supply of safe drinking Fpr ne|p jn |OCating these agencies or for information on
water. Your water bill or telephone book's govern- drinking water in general, call:
ment listings are a good starting point. EPA's Safe Drinking Water Hotline: (800) 426-4791.
Your local water supplier can give you a list of the For additional information on the uses and releases of
chemicals they test for in your water, as well as hovv cnemicals in your state, contact the:
your water is treated. Community Right-to-Know Hotline: (800) 535-0202.
October 199£
Consumer Version
Page2
-------
United States
Environmental Protection
Agency
Office of Water
4601
EPA 811-F-9 5-003 i-C
October 1995
&EPA National Primary Drinking
Water Regulations
Dalapon
This is a factsheet about a chemical that may be found in some public
or private drinking water supplies. It may cause health problems if
found in amounts greater than the health standard set by the United
States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
DRINKING WATER
STANDARDS:
MCLG:
MCL:
0.2 PPM
0.2 PPM
WHATIS
DALAPON
AND HOW IS IT USED?
WHY is DALAPON
BEING REGULATED?
WHAT ARE THE
HEALTH EFFECTS?
Dalapon is a colorless liquid with an acrid odor sold as sodium or magnesium
salt. Dalapon is a herbicide used to control grasses in a wide variety of crops,
including fruit trees, beans, coffee, corn, cotton and peas. It is also registered for
use in a number of non-crop applications such as lawns, drainage ditches, along
railroad tracks, and in industrial areas.
The list of trade names given belowmay help you find put whether you are using
this chemical at home or work.
In 1974, Congress passed the Safe Drinking Water Act. This law requires EPA
to determine safe levels of chemicals in drinking water which do or may cause
health problems. These non-enforceable levels, based solely on possible health
risks and exposure, are called Maximum Contaminant Level Goals.
The MCLG for dalapon has been set at 0.2 parts permillion (ppm) because EPA
believes this level of protection would not cause any of the potential health
problems described below.
Based on this MCLG, EPA has set an enforceable standard called a Maximum
Contaminant Level (MCL). MCLs are set as close to the MCLGs as possible,
considering the ability of public water systems to detect and
remove contaminants using suitable treatment technologies.
The MCL has also been set at 0.2 ppm because EPA believes,
given present technology and resources, this is the lowest level
to which water systems can reasonably be required to remove
this contaminant should it occur in drinking water.
These drinking water standards and the regulations for ensur-
ing these standards are met, are called National Primary Drinking
Water Regulations. All public water supplies must abide by these
regulations.
Short-term: Dalapon is not known to cause any health
problems when people are exposed to it at levels above the MCL
for relatively short periods of time.
Long-term: Dalapon has the potential to cause the following
effects from a lifetime exposure at levels above the MCL: in-
TRADE NAMES AND
SYNONYMS:
REVENGE
ALATEX
BASFAPON
, BASINEX
CRISAPON
DAWPON-RAE
DED-WEED
DOWPON
GRAMEVIN ,
KENAPON
LJROPON
PROPON
RADAPON
UNIPON
S-1315
S-95
2,2-DPA
2,2-DICHLORO- ,
PROPRIONIC ACID
October 1995
Consumer Version
Printed on Recycled Paper
-------
creased kidney-to-body weight.
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 Ibs. 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 leaches readily in soil, though in some soils, microbes may break it
down fast enough to prevent ground water contamination. Still, a persistence of
six months has been observed in soils of various forests and tree nurseries.
Microbes will also degrade most of any releases to water. Accumulation in aquatic
life is not expected to be a problem. .
The regulation for dalapon became effective in 1994. Between 1993 and 1995,
EPA required yourwater supplierto collect water samples every Smonths for one
year and analyze them to find out if dalapon is present above 1 ppb. If it is present
above this level, the system must continue to monitor this contaminant.
If contaminant levels are found to be consistently above the MCL, your water
supplier must take steps to reduce the amount of dalapon so that it is consistently
below that level. The following treatment methods have been approved by EPA
for removing dalapon: Granular activated charcoal. ;
t . • '
If the levels of dalapon exceed the MCL, 0.2 ppm, the system must notify the
public via newspapers, radio, TV and other means. Additional actions, such as
providing alternative drinking water supplies, may be required to prevent serious
risks to public health.
How MUCH DALAPON
IS PRODUCED AND
RELEASED TO THE
ENVIRONMENT?
WHATHAPPENS TO
DALAPON
WHEN IT IS RELEASED TO
THE ENVIRONMENT?
HOW WILL
DALAPON
BE DETECTED IN AND
REMOVED FROM
MY DRINKING WATER?
HOW WILL I KNOW IF
DALAPON is IN MY
DRINKING WATER?
Learn more about your drinking water!
EPA strongly encourages people to learn more
about their drinking water, and to support local efforts
to protect and upgrade the supply of safe drinking
water. Your water bill or telephone book's govern-
ment listings are a good starting point.
Your local water supplier can give you a list of the
chemicals they test for in yourwater, as well as how
your water is treated.
Your state Department of Health/Environment is also a
valuable source of information.
For help in locating these agencies or for information on
drinking water in general, call:
EPA's Safe Drinking Water Hotline: (800) 426-4791.
For additional information on the uses and releases of
chemicals in your state, contact the:
Community Right-to-Know Hotline: (800) 535-0202.
October 1995
Consumer Version
Page 2
-------
United States
Environmental Protection
Agency
Office of Water
4601
,EPA 811-F-95-003 j-C
October 199S
«-EB^ National Primary Drinking
Water Regulations
Dibromochloropropane
this is a factsheet about a chemical that may be found in some public
or private drinking water supplies. It may cause health problems if
found in amounts greater than the health standard set by the United
States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
WHAT is
&BROMO&OJ3ROPROPANE
AND HOW IS IT USED?
DRINKING WATER
.STANDARDS: *
MCLG:
Met:
- PPM/PPB
- PPM/PPB
Dibromochloropropane, or DBCP is a dense yellow organic liquid with a
pungent odor. It is used primarily as an unclassified nematocide for soil fumigation
of cucumbers, summer squash, cabbage, cauliflower, carrots, snap beans, okra,
aster, shasta daisy, lawn grasses and ornamental shrubs.
The listof trade names given below may help you find outwhetheryou are using
this chemical at home or work.
WHYisDBCP
BEING REGULATED?
WHATARETHE
HEALTH EFFECTS?
In 1974, Congress passed the Safe Drinking Water Act. This law requires EPA
to determine safe levels of chemicals in drinking water which do or may cause
health problems. These non-enforceable levels, based solely on possible health
risks and exposure, are called Maximum Contaminant Level Goals.
The MCLG for DBCP has been set at zero because EPA believes this level of
protection would not cause any of the potential health problems described below.
Based on this MCLG, EPA has set an enforceable standard called a Maximum
Contaminant Level (MCL). MCLs are set as close to the MCLGs as possible,
considering the ability of public water systems to detect and remove contaminants
using suitable treatment technologies. .
The MCL has been set at 0.2 ppb because EPA believes, given present
technology and resources, this is the lowest level to which water systems can
reasonably be required to remove thjs contaminant should it
occur in drinking water.
These drinking water standards and the regulations for ensur-
ing these standards are met, are called National Primary Drink-
ing Water Regulations. All public water supplies must abide by
these regulations.
Short-term: EPA has found DBCP to potentially cause the
following health effects when people are exposed to it at levels
above the MCL for relatively short periods of time: kidney and
liver damage and atrophy of the testes.
Long-term: DBCP has the potential to cause the following
effects from a lifetime exposure at levels above the MCL: kidney
damage and antifertility; cancer. ,
TRADE NAMES AND
SYNONYMS:
DBCP
BBC 12
FUMAGON
FUMAZONE
NEMABROM
NEMAFUM
NEMAGON
NEMANAX .
NEMAPAZ
NEMASET
NEMAZON
GRO-TONE
NEMATODE
DURHAM NEMATO-
CIDE
October 1995
Consumer Version
Printed on Recycled Paper
-------
In the past release of DBCP to the environment occurred primarily from its
fumigantand nematocide uses. In 1977, 831,000 pounds of DBCP was used in
CA alone, mainly on grapes and tomatoes. In 1974, USA farmers applied 9.8
million pounds of DBCP on crops.
All registrations of end use products were cancelled in 1979 except for the use
as a soil fumigant against nematodes on pineapples in Hawaii. This use was
cancelled in 1985.
DBCP released to soil will most likely evaporate or leach to groundwater. Break
down by microbes is slow by comparison. Once in the atmosphere, DBCP is
expected to be broken down fairly quickly by sunlight. DBCP is not likely to
accumulate in aquatic life.
The regulation for DBCP became effective in 1992. Between 1993 and 1995,
EPA required your water supplierto collect water samples every 3 months for one
yearand analyze them to find out if DBCP is present above 0.02 ppb. If it is present
above this level, the system must continue to monitor this contaminant.
If contaminant levels are found to be consistently above the MCL, your water
supplier must take steps to reduce the amount of DBCP so that it is consistently
below that level. The following treatment methods have been approved by EPA
for removing DBCP: Granular activated charcoal together with Packed Tower
Aeration.
If the levels of DBCP exceed the MCL, 0.2 ppb, the system must notify the public
via newspapers, radio, TV and other means. Additional actions, such as providing
alternative drinking water supplies, may be required to prevent serious risks to
public health.
How MUCH DBCP
IS PRODUCED AND,
RELEASED TO THE
ENVIRONMENT?
WHATHAPPENS TO
DBCP
WHEN IT IS RELEASED TO
THE ENVIRONMENT?
HOW WILL
DBCP
BE DETECTED IN AND
REMOVED FROM
MY DRINKING WATER?
HOW WILL I KNOW IF
DBCP is IN MY DRINK-
ING WATER?
Learn more about your drinking water!
EPA strongly encourages people to learn more Your state Department of Health/Environment is also a
about their drinking water, and to support local efforts valuable source of information.
to protect and upgrade the supply of safe drinking por ne|p in locating these agencies or for information on
water. Your water bill or telephone book's govern- drinking water in general, call:
ment listings are a good starting point. EPA's Safe Drinking Water Hotline: (800) 426-4791.
Your local water supplier can give you a list of the por additional information on the uses and releases of
chemicals they test for in your water, as well as how chemicals in your state, contact the:
your water is treated. Community Right-to-Know Hotline: (800) 535-0202.
October 199£
Consumer Version
Page 2
-------
United States
Environmental Protection
Agency
Office of Water
4601
EPA811-F-95-003 k-C
October 1995
&H>A National Primary Drinking
Water Regulations a
Dinoseb
This is a factsheet about a chemical that may be found in some public
or private drinking water supplies. It may cause health problems if
found in amounts greater than the health standard set by the United
States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
DRINKING WATER
STANDARDS: .
MCLG:
MCL:
7 PPB
7PPB
WHAT is
DINOSEB
AND HOW IS IT USED?
WHY is DINOSEB
BEING REGULATED?
WHAT ARE THE
HEALTH EFFECTS?
Dinoseb is an organic solid - yellowish crystals with a pungent odor. Its greatest
use is as a contact herbicide for post-emergence weed control in cereals,
undersown cereals, seedling lucerne and peas. Dinoseb is also used as a corn
yield enhancer and an insecticide and miticide.
The list of trade names given below may help you find out whether you are using.
this chemical at home or work.
In 1974, Congress passed the Safe Drinking Water Act. This law requires EPA
to determine safe levels of chemicals in drinking water which do or may cause
health problems. These non-enforceable levels, based solely on possible health
risks and exposure, are called Maximum Contaminant Level Goals.
The MCLG for dinoseb has been set at 7 parts per billion (ppb) because EPA
believes this level of protection would not cause any of the
potential health problems described below. /
Based on this MCLG, EPA has set an enforceable standard
called a Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL). MCLs are set as
close to the MCLGs as possible, considering the abHity of public
water systems to detect and remove contaminants using suitable
treatment technologies.
The MCL, has been set at 7 ppb because EPA believes, given
present technology and resources, this is the lowest level to which
water systems can reasonably be required to remove this con-
taminant should it occur in drinking Water.
These drinking water standards and the regulations for ensur-
ing these standards are met, are called National Primary Drinking
Water Regulations. All public water supplies must abide by these
regulations.
Short-term: EPA has found dinoseb to potentially cause the
following health effects when people are exposed to it at levels
above the MCL for relatively short periods of time: sweating,
headache, mood changes.
Long-term: Dinoseb has the potential to cause the following
TRADE NAMES AND
SYNONYMS:
AATOX
CHEMOX
GEBUTOX
KNOX-WEED
.BASANITE •
BNP20
'BUTAPHENE
DlBUTOX
DlNITRALL
DlNITRO
DESICOIL
Dow SELECTIVE
WEED KILLER
HIVERTOX
LADOB
LASEB
NITROPONE C
CJYTOP
'.PREMERGE
HEL-FIRE
CALDON
KILOSEB ,
'SiNOX GENERAL
SUBITEX
DlNITROBUTYL-
PHENOL
October 1995
Consumer Version
Printed on Recycled Paper.
-------
effects from a lifetime exposure at levels above the MCL: decreased body and
thyroid weight, degeneration of testes; thickening of intestinal lining.
1982 production of dinoseb was reported as 6.2 million pounds, used primarily
on soybeans and vegetables. Release of dinoseb has resulted primarily from its
use as an herbicide on a variety of weeds.
Dinoseb is degraded slowly by soil bacteria and binds weakly to soil. Therefore,
leaching in soil is possible and dinoseb has been detected in groundwater. In
water, dinoseb is mainly broken down by sunlight. It is not likely to accumulate in
aquatic life.
The regulation for dinoseb became effective in 1994. Between 1993 arid 1995,
EPA required your water supplier to collect water samples every 3 months for one
yearand analyze them to find out if dinoseb is present above 0.2 ppb. If it is present
above this level, the system must continue to monitor this contaminant.
If contaminant levels are found to be consistently above the MCL, your water
supplier must take steps to reduce the amount of dinoseb so that it is consistently
below that level. The following treatment methods have been approved by EPA
for removing dinoseb: Granular activated charcoal.
If the levels of dinoseb exceed the MCL, 7 ppb, the system must notify the public
via newspapers, radio, TV and pthermeans. Additional actions, such as providing
alternative drinking water supplies, may be required to prevent serious risks to
public health.
How MUCH DINOSEB
IS PRODUCED AND
RELEASED TO THE
ENVIRONMENT?
WHAT HAPPENS TO
DINOSEB
WHEN IT IS RELEASED TO
THE ENVIRONMENT?
HOW WILL
DINOSEB
BE DETECTED IN AND
REMOVED FROM
MY DRINKING WATER?
HOW WILL I KNOW IF
DINOSEB is IN MY
DRINKING WATER?
Learn more about your drinking water!
EPA strongly encourages people to learn more
about their drinking water, and to support local efforts
to protect and upgrade the supply of safe drinking
water. Your water bill or telephone book's govern-
ment listings are a good starting point.
Your local water supplier can give you a list of the
chemicals they test for in your water, as well as how
your water is treated. •
Your state Department of Health/Environment is also a
valuable source of information.
For help in locating these agencies or for information on
drinking water in general, call:
EPA's Safe Drinking Water Hotline: (800) 426-4791.
For additional information on the uses and releases of
chemicals in your state, contact the:
Community Right-to-Know Hotline: (800) 535-0202.
October 1995
Consumer Version
Page 2
-------
United States
Environmental Protection
Agency
Office of Water
4601
EPA811-F-95-003 I-C
October 1995
**EFA National Primary Drinking
Water Regulations
Dioxin (2,3,7,8-TCDD)
This is a factsheet about a chemical that may be found in some public
or private drinking water supplies. It may cause health problems if
found in amounts greater than the health standard set by the United
States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
DRINKING WATER
STANDARDS:
MCLG:
Mcu
ZERO
0.03 PPB
WHAT is
DIOXIN
AND HOW IS IT,USED?
Dioxin is an organic solid of white crystalline needles. Dioxin is not produced or
used commercially in the US. It is a contaminantformed in the production of some
chlorinated organic compounds, including a few herbicides such as silvex. It may
also be formed during combustion of a variety of chlorinated organic compounds.
The list of trade names given below may help you find out whetheryou are using
this chemical at home or work.
WHY is DIOXIN
BEING REGULATED?
In 1974, Congress passed the Safe Drinking Water Act. This law requires EPA
to determine safe levels of chemicals in drinking water which do or may cause
health problems. These non-enforceable levels, based solely on possible health
risks and exposure, are called Maximum Contaminant Level Goals. -
The MCLG for dioxin has been set at zero because EPA believes thjs level of
protection would not cause any of the potential health problems described below.
Based on this MCLG, EPA has set an enforceable standard called a Maximum
Contaminant Level (MCL). MCLs are set as close to the MCLGs as possible,
considering the ability of public water systems to detect and remove contaminants
using suitable treatment technologies.
The MCL has been set at 0.03 parts per billion (ppb) because EPA believes,
given present technology and resources, this is the lowest level to which water
systems can reasonably be required to remove this contaminant should it occur
in drinking water.
These drinking water standards and the regulations for ensuring these stan-
dards are met, are called National Primary Drinking Water Regulations. All public
water supplies must abide by these regulations.
WHAT ARE THE
HEALTH EFFECTS?
October 1995
Short-term: EPA has found dioxin to potentially cause the
following health effects when people are exposed to it at levels
above the MCL for relatively short periods of time: liver damage,
weight loss, wasting of glands important to the body's immune
system.
Long-term: Dioxin has the potential to cause the following
effects from a lifetime exposure at levels above the MCL: a variety
of reproductive .effects, from reduced fertility to birth defects;
TRADE NAMES AND
SYNONYMS:
DIOXIN
TETRADIOXIN
Consumer Version
Printed on Recycled Paper
-------
cancer.
Dioxin is released to the environment in emissions from the incineration of
municipal refuse and certain chemical wastes, in exhaust from automobiles
powered by leaded gasoline, in emissions from wood burning in the presence of
chlorine, in accidental fires involving transformers containing PCBs and chlori-
nated benzenes, and from the improper disposal of certain chlorinated chemical
wastes. It has been released to the environment as a low level impurity in various
pesticides.
Dioxin is one of the most toxic and environmentally stable tricyclic aromatic
compounds of its structural class.
Due to its very low water solubility, most of the dioxin occurring in water will
adhere to sediments and suspended silts. Similarly, it tends to adhere to soil if
released to land, and is not likely to leach to ground water. Two processes which
may be able to remove dioxin from water and soil are evaporation and breakdown
by sunlight. Dioxin is generally resistantto microbial breakdown. Dioxin has a very
great tendency to accumulate in aquatic life, from algae to fish.
The regulation for dioxin became effective in 1994. Between 1993 and 1995,
EPA required your water supplier to collect water samples every 3 months for one
year and analyze them to find out if dioxin is present above 5 parts per trillion. If
it is present above this level, the system must continue to monitor this contami-
nant
If contaminant levels are found to be consistently above the MCL, your water
supplier must take steps to reduce the amount of dioxin so that it is consistently
below that level. The following treatment methods have been approved by EPA
for removing dioxin: Granular activated charcoal.
How MUCH DIOXIN
IS PRODUCED AND
RELEASED TO THE
ENVIRONMENT?
WHAT HAPPENS TO
DIOXIN
WHEN IT IS RELEASED TO
THE ENVIRONMENT?
HOW WILL
DIOXIN
BE DETECTED IN AND
REMOVED FROM
MY DRINKING WATER?
If the levels of dioxin exceed the MCL, 0.03 ppb, the system must notify the
public via newspapers, radio, TV and other means. Additional actions, such as
providing alternative drinking water supplies, may be required to prevent serious
risks to public health.
HOW WILL I KNOW IF
DIOXIN is IN MY DRINKING
WATER?
Learn more about your drinking water!
EPA strongly encourages people to learn more Your state Department of Health/Environment is also a
abouttheir drinking water, and to support localefforts valuable source of information.
to protect and upgrade the supply of safe drinking For h6|p jn |ocating these agencies or for information on
water. Your water bill or telephone book's govern- drinking water in general, call:
ment listings are a good starting point. EPA's Safe Drinking Water Hotline: (800) 426-4791.
Your local water supplier can give you a list of the For additional information on the uses and releases of
chemicals they test for in your water, as well as how chemicals in your state, contact the: .
your water is treated. Community Right-to-Know Hotline: (800) 535-0202.
October 1995
Consumer Version
Page 2
-------
United States
Environmental Protection
Agency
Office of Water
4601
EPA 811 -F-95-003 m-C
October 1995
National Primary Drinking
Water Regulations
Diquat
This is a factsheet about a chemical that may be found in some public
or private drinking water supplies. It may cause health problems if
found in amounts greater than the health standard set by the United
States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
DRINKING WATER
STANDARDS:
MCLG: 20 PPB
MCL: 20 PPB
WHAT is
DIQUAT
AND HOWIS.IT USED?
Diquat is an organic solid of colorless or yellow crystals. A water solution is dark
red-brown. Diquat is a herbicide that has been used extensively in the US since
the late 1950s to control both crop and aquatic weeds. It is used on potatoes; as
an aid in harvesting cotton, rapeseed and other oil seed crops; to wilt and dry out
.silage, standing hay, etc. for storage; a plant growth regulator and sugar cane-
flowering suppressant.
The list of trade names given below may help you find out whether you are using
this chemical at home or work.
WHY is DIQUAT
BEING REGULATED?
WHAT ARE THE
HEALTH EFFECTS?
In 1974, Congress passed the Safe Drinking Water Act. This law requires EPA
to determine safe levels of chemicals in drinking water which do or may cause
health problems. These non-enforceable levels, based solely on possible health
risks and exposure, are called Maximum Contaminant Level Goals. ,
The MCLG for diquat has been set at 20 parts per billion (ppb) because EPA
believes this level of protection would not cause any of the potential health
problems described below.
Based on this MCLG, EPA has set an enforceable standard called a Maximum
Contaminant Level (MCL). MCLs are set as close to the MCLGs as possible,
considering the ability of public water systems to detect and remove contaminants
using suitable treatment technologies.
The MCL has been set at 20 ppb because EPA believes, given present
technology and resources, this is the lowest level to which water systems can
reasonably be required to remove this contaminant should it occur in drinking
water. (
These drinking water standards and the regulations for ensur-
ing these standards are met, are called National Primary Drinking
Water Regulations. AH public water supplies must abide by these
regulations.
Short-term: EPA has found diquat to potentially cause the
following health effects when people are exposed to it at levels
above the MCL for relatively short periods of time: dehydration.
Long-term: Diquat has the potential to cause the following
TRADE NAMES AND
SYNONYMS:
\REGLONE
October 1995
Consumer Version
Printed on Recycled Paper
-------
effects from a lifetime exposure at levels above the MCL: cataracts.
Diquat usage in 1980 was estimated to be 200,000 Ibs. of active ingredient.
1982 data indicates that diquat was not produced domestically, but imports were
nearly 835,000 Ibs. Diquat is released into the environment during its use as a
contact herbicide, aquatic weed control agent, harvesting aid, or plant growth
regulator. It may also be released into wastewater or in spills during its manufac-
ture, transport and storage.
How MUCH DIQUAT
IS PRODUCED AND
RELEASED TO THE
ENVIRONMENT?
Diquat rapidly adheres to soil particles. Though it is resistant to breakdown by
microbes or other means, this binding to soil serves to deactivate it. Still, diquat
has some potential to leach to ground water.
Diquat is removed rapidly from water, disappearing in 2-4 weeks. It has little or
no tendency to accumulate in fish.
WHATHAPPENS TO
DIQUAT
WHEN IT IS RELEASED TO
THE ENVIRONMENT?
The regulation for diquat became effective in 1994. Between 1993 and 1995,
EPA required your water supplier to collect water samples every 3 months for one
year and analyze them to find out if diquat is present above 0.4 ppb. If it is present
above this level, the system must continue to monitor this contaminant.
If contaminant levels are found to be consistently above the MCL, your water
supplier must take steps to reduce the amount of diquat so that it is consistently
below that level. The following treatment methods have been approved by EPA
for removing diquat: Granular activated charcoal.
Ifthe levels of diquat exceed the MCL, 20 ppb, the system must notify the public
via newspapers, radio, TV and other means. Additional actions, such as providing
alternative drinking water supplies, may be required to prevent serious risks to
public health.
How WILL
DIQUAT
BE DETECTED IN AND
REMOVED FROM
MY DRINKING WATER?
HOW WILL I KNOW IF
DIQUAT is IN MY DRINK-
ING WATER?
Learn more about your drinking water!
EPA strongly encourages people to learn more Your state Department of Health/Environment is also a
abouttheir drinking water, and to support local efforts valuable source of information.
to protect and upgrade the supply of safe drinking por he|p jn |ocating these agencies or for information on
water. Your water bill or telephone book's govern- drinking water in general, call:
ment listings are a good starting point. EPA's Safe Drinking Water Hotline: (8.00) 426-4791.
Your local water supplier can give you a list of the For additional information on the uses and releases of
chemicals they test for in your water, as well as how chemicals in your state, contact the:
your water is treated. Commun ity Right-to-Know Hotline: (800) 535-0202.
October 1995
Consumer Version
Page 2
-------
United States
Environmental Protection
Agency
Office of Water
4601
EPA 811-F-95-O03 n-C
October 1995
&EPA
National Primary Drinking
Water Regulations
Endothall
This is a factsheet about a chemical that may be found in some public
or private drinking water supplies. It may cause health problems if
found in amounts greater than the health standard set by the United
States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
DRINKING WATER
STANDARDS:
MCLG:
MCL:
0.1 PPM
0.1 PPM
WHAT is
ENDOTHALL
AND HOW IS IT USED?
Endothall is an organic solid of white odorless crystals. Endothall is used as a
defoliant for a wide range of crops and as a herbicide for both terrestrial and
aquatic weeds. It is used as a desiccant on lucerne and on potato, for the
defoliation of cotton, to control aquatic weeds and as an aquatic algicide growth
regulator. It has been used for: sugar beets, turf, hops sucker suppression; alfalfa,
clover desiccants; potato vine killers.
The list of trade names given below may help you find out whether you are using
this chemical at home or work.
WHY is ENDOTHALL
BEING REGULATED?
WHATARETHE
HEALTH EFFECTS?
,ln 1974, Congress passed the Safe Drinking Water Act. This law requires EPA
to determine safe levels of chemicals in drinking water which do or may cause
health problems. These non-enforceable levels, based solely on possible health
risks and exposure, are called Maximum Contaminant Level Goals.
The MCLG for endothall has been set at 0.1 parts per million (ppm) because
EPA believes this level of protection would not cause any of the potential health
problems described below.
Based on this MCLG, EPA has set an enforceable standard called a Maximum
Contaminant Level (MCL). MCLs are set as close to the MCLGs as possible,
considering the ability of public water systems to detect and remove contaminants
using suitable treatment technologies.
The MCL has been set at 0.1 ppm because EPA believes, given present
technology and resources, this is the lowest level to which water systems can
reasonably be required to remove this contaminant should it
occur in drinking water.
These drinking water standards and the regulations for ensur-
ing these standards are met, are called National Primary Drinking
Water Regulations. All public water supplies must abide by these
regulations.
Short-term: EPA has found endothall to potentially cause the
following health effects when people are exposed to it at levels
above the MCL for relatively short periods of time: depressed
breathing and heart rate.
TRADE NAMES AND
SYNONYMS:
ACCELERATE. •
AQUATHOL
DES-I-CATE
ENDOTHALL TURF
HERBICIDE ,
ENDOTHALL
WEED KILLER
HERBICIDE 273
' HYDROTHOL
HERBON
PENNOUT
HYDOUT.
October 1995
Consumer Version
Printed on Recycled Paper
-------
Long-term: Endothall has the potential to cause the following effects from a
lifetime exposure at levels above the MCL: increase in size of some internal
organs, particularly the stomach and intestine.
EPA estimated total domestic usage in 1982 to have been approximately 1.5
million Ibs. Release of endothall to the environment is expected to occur primarily
during its use as a pre-emergence, post-emergence, turf arid aquatic herbicide
and harvest aid. Other sources of release include loss during manufacturing,
formulation, packaging or disposal of this herbicide.
How MUCH ENDOTHALL
IS PRODUCED AND
RELEASED TO THE
ENVIRONMENT?
Endothall is expected to be quickly broken down by microbes in soil or water.
It is also able to leach through soil into ground water; however, rapid degradation
would limit the extent of leaching. Endothall is not likely to accumulate in aquatic
life.
WHAT HAPPENS TO
ENDOTHALL \
WHEN IT IS RELEASED TO
THE ENVIRONMENT?
The regulation for endothall became effective in 1994. Between 1993 and 1995,
EPA required your water supplier to collect water samples every 3 months for one
year and analyze them to find out if endothall is present above 9 parts per billion.
If it is present above this level, the system must continue, to monitor this
contaminant.
If contaminant levels are found to be consistently above the MCL, your water
suppliermust take steps to reduce the amount of endothall so that it is consistently
below that level. The following treatment methods have been approved by EPA
for removing endothall: Granular activated charcoal.
How WILL
ENDOTHALL
BE DETECTED IN AND
REMOVED FROM
MY DRINKING WATER?
If the levels of endothall exceed the MCL, 0.1 ppm, the system must notify the
public via newspapers, radio, TV and other means. Additional actions, such as
providing alternative drinking water supplies, may be required to prevent serious
risks to public health. .
HOW WILL I KNOW IF
ENDOTHALL is IN MY
DRINKING WATER?
Learn more about your drinking water!
EPA strongly encourages people to learn more Your State Department of Health/Environment is also a
abouttheir drinking water, and to support local efforts valuable source of information.
to protect and upgrade the supply of safe drinking For ne!p jr| |ocatjng tnese agencies or for information on
water. Your water bill or telephone book's govern- drinkjng water in general, call:
ment listings are a good starting point. EPA's Safe Drinking Water Hotline: (800) 426-4791.
Your local water supplier can give you a list of the For additjonal information on the uses and releases of
chemicals they test for in your water, as well as how cnemica|S in your state, contact the:
your water is treated. Community Right-to-Know Hotline: (800) 535-0202.
October 1995
Consumer Version
Page 2
-------
United States
Environmental Protection
Agency
Office of Water
4601
EPA 811-F-95-OO3 o-C
October 1995
National Primary Drinking
Water Regulations
Endrin
t
Thjs is a factsheet about a chemical that may be found in some public
or private drinking water supplies. It may cause health problems if
found in amounts greater than the health standard set by the United
States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
DRINKING WATER
STANDARDS:
MCLG:
MCL:
2 PPB
2 PPB
WHAT is
ENDRIN
AND HOW IS IT USED?
Endrin is an organic solid of odorless white crystals. Endrin is an insecticide
which has been used mainly on field crops such as cotton, maize, sugarcane, rice,
cereals, ornamentals, and other crops. It has also been used for grasshoppers in
non-cropland and to control voles and mfce in orchards. Once widely used in the
US, most uses were cancelled in 1980.
The list of trade names given below may help you find out whether you are using
this chemical at home or work.
WHY is ENDRIN
BEING REGULATED?
WHAT ARE THE
HEALTH EFFECTS?
In 1974, Congress passed the Safe Drinking Water Act. This law requires EPA
to determine safe levels of chemicals in drinking water which do or may cause
health problems. These non-enforceable levels, based solely on possible health
risks and exposure, are called Maximum Contaminant Level Goals.
The MCLG for endrin has been set at 2 parts per billion (ppb) because EPA
believes this level of protection would not cause any of the potential health
• problems described below.
Based on this MCLG, EPA has set an enforceable standard called a Maximum
Contaminant Level (MCL). MCLs are set as close to the MCLGs as possible,
considering the ability of public water systems to detect and remove contaminants
using suitable treatment technologies.
The MCL has been set at 2 ppb because EPA believes, given present
technology and resources, this is the lowest level to which water systems can
reasonably be required to remove this contaminant should it occur in drinking
water.
These drinking water standards and the regulations for ensuring these stan-
dards are met, are called National Primary Drinking Water
Regulations. All public water supplies must abide by these
regulations.
»
Short-term: EPA has found endrin to potentially cause the
following health effects when people are exposed to it at levels
above the MCL for relatively short periods of time: tremors,
labored breathing, mental confusion, convulsions.
Long-term: Endrin has the potential to cause the following
TRADE NAMES AND
SYNONYMS:
NENDRIN
EN 57
ENDREX
ENDRICOL
HEXADRIN
MENDRIN
OKTANEX
COMPOUND 269
October 1995
Consumer Version
Printed on Recycled Paper
-------
effects from a lifetime exposure at levels above the MCL convulsions and
damage to liver tissue.
Production in 1980 was reported to be 100,000 Ibs. Endrin's former source in
the environment is from use as an insect, bird and rat-killer. It has been used on
agricultural crops, cotton seeds, control of birds on buildings and mice in
orchards. Its major use has been on cotton crops. The EPA presently considers
the pesticide cancelled.
Endrin is very persistent, but it is known to be broken down by sunlight. Endrin
released to soils will persistfor up to 14 years or more. Its strong adsorption to soil
makes leaching into groundwater unlikely. However, the detection of endrin in
certain groundwater samples suggest that leaching may be possible in some
soils. Endrin released to water systems will also persist, mainly in sediments.
It has a very high potential to accumulate in fish and shellfish.
The regulation for endrin became effective in 1992. Between 1993 and 1995,
EPA required your water supplier to collect water samples every 3 months for one
year and analyze them to find out if endrin is present above 0.01 ppb. If it is present
above this level, the system must continue to monitor this contaminant.
If contaminant levels are found to be consistently above the MCL, your water
supplier must take steps to reduce the amount of endrin so that it is consistently
below that level. The following treatment methods have been approved by EPA
for removing endrin: Granular activated charcoal.
If the levels of endrin exceed the MCL, 2 ppb, the system must notify the public
via newspapers, radio, TV and other means. Additional actions, such as providing
alternative drinking water supplies, may be required to prevent serious risks to
public health.
How MUCH ENDRIN
IS PRODUCED AND
RELEASED TO THE ,
ENVIRONMENT?
WHATHAPPENS TO
ENDRIN
WHEN IT IS RELEASED TO
THE ENVIRONMENT?
HOW WILL
ENDRIN
BE DETECTED IN AND
REMOVED FROM
MY DRINKING WATER?
HOW WILL I KNOW IF
ENDRIN is IN MY DRINK-
ING WATER?,
Learn more about your drinking water!
EPA strongly encourages people to learn more
abouttheir drinking water, and to support local efforts
to protect and upgrade the supply of safe drinking
water. Your water bill or telephone book's govern-
ment listings are a good starting point.
Your local water supplier can give you a list of the
chemicals they test for in your water, as well as how
your water is treated.
Your state Department of Health/Environment is also a
valuable source of information.
For help in locating these agencies or for information on
drinking water in general, call:
EPA's Safe Drinking Water Hotline: (800) 426-4791.
For additional information on the uses and releases of
chemicals in your state, contact the:
Community Right-to-Know Hotline: (800) 535-0202.
October 1995
Consumer Version
Page 2
-------
United States
Environmental Protection
Agency
Office of Water
4601
EPA811-F-95-003 p-C
October 199S
-SEBV National Primary Drinking
Water Regulations
Ethylene Dibromide
This is a factsheet about a chemical that may be found in some public
or private drinking water supplies. It may cause health problems if
found in amounts greater than the health standard set by the United
States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
WHAT is
ETHYLENE DIBROMIDE
AND HOW IS IT USED?
DRINKING WATER
STANDARDS:
MCLG:
MCL:
- PPM/PPB
- PPM/PPB
Ethylene dibromide (EDB) is a colorless, heavy organic liquid with a mildly
sweet chloroform-like odor. Ethylene dibromide is mainly used in anti-knock
gasoline mixtures, particularly in aviation fuel. Other uses include: as a solvent
for resins, gums, and waxes; in waterproofing preparations; in making dyes and
drugs; and as a pesticide for grains and fruit.
The list of trade names given below may help you find out whether you are using
this chemical at home or work. , .
WHY is ETHYLENE
DIBROMIDE
BEING REGULATED?
WHATARETHE
HEALTH EFFECTS?
In 1974, Congress passed the Safe Drinking Water Act. This law requires EPA
to determine safe levels of chemicals in drinking water which do or may cause
health problems. These non-enforceable levels, based solely on possible health
risks and exposure, are called Maximum Contaminant Level Goals.
The MCLG for EDB has been set at zero because EPA believes this level of
protection would not cause any of the potential health problems described below.
Based on this MCLG, EPA has set an enforceable standard called a Maximum
Contaminant Level (MCL). MCLs are set as close to the MCLGs as possible,
considering the ability of public water systems todetect and remove contaminants
using suitable treatment technologies.
The MCL has been set at 0.05 parts per billion (ppb) because EPA believes,
given present technology and resources, this is the lowest level to which water
systems can reasonably be required to remove this contaminant should it occur
in drinking water.
These drinking water standards and the regulations for ensur-
ing these standards are met, are called National Primary Drinking
Water Regulations. All public water supplies must abide by these
regulations.
Short-term: EPA has found EDB to potentially cause the
following health effects when people are exposed to it at levels
above the MCL for relatively short periods of time: damage to the
liver, stomach, and adrenal glands, along with significant repro-
ductive system toxicity, particularly the testes.
Long-term: EDB has the potential to cause the following
TRADE NAMES AND
SYNONYMS:
EDB ~":
GLYCdL
DIBROMIDE
BROMOFUME
DOWFUME W 85
AADIBROOM
ISCOBROME-D
NEFIS
PESTMASTER
EDB-85
SOILBROM-
SOILFUME,
KOPFUME
1 October 1995
Consumer Version
Printed on Recycled Paper
-------
effects from a lifetime exposure at levels
above the MCL: damage to the respiratory
system, nervous system, liver, heart, and
kidneys; cancer.
EDB Is released during the use, storage,'
and transport of leaded gasoline, as well as
during any spills; from its former use as a
pesticide; wastewater and emissions from
processes and waste waters of the chemi-
cal industries that use it.
From 1987 to 1993,, according to the
Toxics Release Inventory EDB releases to
land and water totalled over 3,000 Ibs.
These releases were primarily from petro-
leum refineries. The largest of these releases occurred in California and Missouri.
RELEASES TO WATER AND LAND:
1987 TO 1993
Water
TOTALS (in pounds) 2,554
Top Six States
CA 344
MS 342
HI 750
NJ 0
TX 110
PR 500
Top Industrial Sources
Petroleum refining 2,119
Industrial organic 355
chemicals, fertilizers
Land
2,670
500
500
0
700
466
0
1;716
700
How MUCH ETHYLENE
DlBROMIDE
IS PRODUCED AND
RELEASED TO THE
ENVIRONMENT?
When spilled on land or applied to land during soil fumigation, ethylene
dibromide may leach to groundwater. Its persistence can vary greatly from soil to
soil, from a few weeks to as much as 19 years. .
EDB released to water will mainly evaporate. It can be degraded by microbes
and chemical reaction in some types of groundwater. It does not tend to
accumulate in aquatic life.
WHAT HAPPENS TO
ETHYLENE DIBROMIDE
WHEN IT IS RELEASED TO
THE ENVIRONMENT?
The regulation for EDB became effective in 1992. Between 1993 and 1995, HOW WILL
EPA required your water supplierto collect water samples every 3 months for one ETHYLENE DIBROMIDE
year and analyze them to find out if EDB is present above 0.01 ppb. If it is present BE DETECTED IN AND
above this level, the system must continue to monitor this contaminant. REMOVED FROM
.'«,-. MY DRINKING WATER?
If contaminant levels are found to be consistently above the MCL, your water
supplier must take steps to reduce the amount of EDB so that it is consistently
below that level. The following treatment methods have been approved by EPA
for removing EDB: Granular activated charcoal.
9 . ' • '
If the levels of EDB exceed the MCL, 0.05 ppb, the system must notify the public How WILL I KNOW IF
via newspapers, radio, TV and Other means. Additional actions, such as providing ETHYLENE DIBROMIDE is
alternative drinking water supplies, may be required to prevent serious risks to IN MY DRINKING WATER?
public health. •
Learn more about your drinking water! ~
EPA strongly encourages people to learn more Your state Department of Health/Environment is also a
abouttheir drinking water, and to support local efforts valuable source of information.
to protect and upgrade the supply of safe drinking For ne|p jn |ocating these agencies or for information on
water. Your water bill or telephone book's govern- drinking water in general, call:
ment listings are a good starting point. EPA's Safe Drinking Water Hotline: (800) 426-4791.
Your local water supplier can give you a list of the For additional information on the uses and releases of
chemicals they test for in your water, as well as how chemicals in your state, contact the:
your water is treated. Community Right-to-Know Hotline: (800) 535-0202.
October 1995
Consumer Version
Page 2
-------
United States
Environmental Protection
' Agency ,
Office of Water
4601
EPA 811-F-9 5-003 q-C
October 1995
«-EB^ National Primary Drinking
Water Regulations
Glyphosate
This is a factsheet about a chemical that may be found in some public
or private drinking water supplies. It may cause health problems if
found in amounts greater than the health standard set by the United
States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
WHAT is
GLYPHOSATE
AND HOW IS IT USED?
DRINKING WATER .
STANDARDS:
MCLG:
MCL:
- PPM/PPB
- PPM/PPB
Glyphosate is an organic solid of odorless white crystals. It is a non-selective
herbicide used on many food and non-food crops as well as non-crop areas such
as roadsides. When applied at lower rates, it serves as a plant growth regulator.
The most common uses include control of broadleaf weeds and grasses in: hay/
pasture, soybeans, field corn; ornamentals, lawns, turf, forest plantings, green-
houses, rights-of-way.
, The list of trade names given below may help you find out whether you are using
this chemical at home or work.
WHY is GLYPHOSATE
BEING REGULATED?
WHATARETHE
HEALTH EFFECTS?
In 1974, Congress passed the Safe Drinking Water Act. This law requires EPA
to determine safe levels of chemicals in drinking water which do or may cause
health problems. These non-enforceable levels, based solely on possible health
risks and exposure, are called Maximum Contaminant Level Goals.
The MCLG for glyphosate has been set at 0.7 parts per million (ppm) because
EPA believes this level of protection would not cause any of the potential health
problems described below.
r Based on this MCLG, EPA has set an enforceable standard called a Maximum
Contaminant Level (MCL). MCLs are set as close to the MCLGs as possible,
considering the ability of public water systems to detect and remove contaminants
using suitable treatment technologies.
The MCL has been set at 0:7 ppm because EPA believes, given present
technology and resources, this is the lowest level to which water systems can
reasonably be required to remove this contaminant should it
occur in drinking water.
These drinking water standards and the regulations for ensur-
ing these standards are met, are called National Primary Drinking
Water Regulations. All public water supplies must abide by these
regulations.
Short-term: EPA has found glyphosate to potentially cause the
following health effects when people are exposed to it at levels
above the MCL for relatively short periods of time: congestion of
the lungs; increased breathing rate.
TRADE NAMES AND
SYNONYMS:
GLIALKA
ROUNDUP
STING
RODEO
SPASOR
MUSTER
TUMBLEWEED
SONIC
GUFONOX
GLYCEL
RONDO
October 1995
Consumer Version
Printed on Recycled Paper
-------
Long-term: Glyphosate has the potential to cause the following effects from a
lifetime exposure at levels above the MCL: kidney damage, reproductive effects.
Glyphosate is released to the environment in its use as a herbicide for
controlling woody and herbaceous weeds on forestry, right-of-way, cropped and
non-cropped sites. These sites may be around water and in wetlands.
It may also be released to the environment during its manufacture, formulation,
transport, storage, disposal and cleanup, and from spills. Glyphosate is among
the most widely used pesticides by volume. Usage in 1990 was estimated to be
11,595,000 pounds. It ranked eleventh among conventional pesticides in the US
during 1990-91. In recent years, 13 to 20 million acres were treated with 18.7
million Ibs. annually.
How MUCH GLYPHOSATE
IS PRODUCED AND
RELEASED TO THE
ENVIRONMENT?
Glyphosate is strongly adsorbed to soil, with little potential for leaching to
ground water. Microbes in the soil readily and completely degrade it even under
low temperature conditions. It tends to adhere to sediments when released to
water. Glyphosate does not tend to accumulate in aquatic life.
The regulation for glyphosate became effective in 1994. Between 1993 and
1995, EPA required your water supplier to collect water samples every 3 months
for one year and analyze them to find out if glyphosate is present above 6 parts
perbillion. If it is present above this level, the system must continue to monitorthis
contaminant.
If contaminant levels are found to be consistently above the MCL, your water
supplier must take steps to reduce the amount of glyphosate so that it is
consistently below that level. The following treatment methods have been
approved by EPA for removing glyphosate: Granular activated charcoal.
If the levels of glyphosate exceed the MCL, 0.7 ppm, the system must notify the
public via newspapers, radio, TV and other means. Additional actions, such as
providing alternative drinking water supplies, may be required to prevent serious
risks to public health.
WHATHAPPENS TO
GLYPHOSATE
WHEN IT IS RELEASED TO
THE ENVIRONMENT?
HOW WILL
GLYPHOSATE
BE DETECTED IN AND
REMOVED FROM
MY DRINKING WATER?
HOW WILL I KNOW IF
GLYPHOSATE is IN MY
DRINKING WATER?
Learn more about your drinking water!
EPA strongly encourages people to leam more
about their drinking water, and to support local efforts
to protect and upgrade the supply of safe drinking
water. Your water bill or telephone book's govern-
ment listings are a good starting point.
Your local water supplier can give you a list of the
chemicals they test for in your water, as well as how
your water is treated.
Your state Department of Health/Environment is also a
valuable source of information.
For help in locating these agencies or for information on
drinking water in general, call:
EPA's Safe Drinking Water Hotline: (800) 426-4791.
For additional information on the uses and releases of
chemicals in your state, contact the:
Community Right-to-Know Hotline: (800) 535-0202.
October 1995
Consumer Version
Page 2
-------
United States
Environmental Protection
Agency
Office of Water
4601
EPA 811-F-95-003 r-C
October 1995
<»EB\ National Primary Drinking
Water Regulations
Heptachlor and Heptachlor Epoxide
This is a factsheet about a chemical that may be found in some public
or private drinking water supplies. It may cause health problems if
found in amounts greater than the health standard set by the United
States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). .• ;-
WHATIS
HEPTACHLOR
AND HOW IS IT USED?
DRINKING WATER
STANDARDS:
MCLG:
HEPTACHLOR- ZERO
- EPOXIDE- ZERO
Met:
HEPTACHLOR-
- EPOXIDE-
0.4 PPB
0.2 PPB
Heptachlor is a white to tan waxy organic solid with a
camphor-like odor. The epoxide is formed from heptachlor
in the environment. It was once used as a non-agricultural
insecticide. Most uses of the product were cancelled in
1978. The only permitted commercial use of heptachlor products is for fire ant
control in buried, pad-mounted electric power transformers, and in underground
cable television and telephone cable boxes,
. The list of trade names given below may help you find out whether you are using
this chemical at home or work.
WHY is HEPTACHLOR
BEING REGULATED?
WHAT ARE THE
HEALTH EFFECTS?
In 1974, Congress passed the Safe Drinking Water Act. This law requires EPA
to determine safe levels of chemicals in drinking water which do or may cause
health problems. These non-enforceable levels, based solely on possible health
risks and exposure, are called Maximum Contaminant level Goals.
The MCLGs for heptachlor and its epoxide have bfeen set at zero because EPA
believes this level of protection would not cause any of the potential health
problems described below.
Based on these MCLGs, EPA has set enforceable standards called Maximum
Contaminant Levels (MCLs). MCLs are set as close to the MCLGs as possible,
considering the ability of public water systems todetect and remove contaminants
using suitable treatment technologies.
The MCL for heptachlor has been set at 0.4 parts per billion
(ppb) because EPA believes, given present technology and
resources, this is the lowest level to which water systems can
reasonably be required to remove this contaminant should It
occur in drinking water. The MCL for the epoxide is 0.2 ppb.
These drinking water standards and the regulations for
ensuring these standards are met, are called National Primary
Drinking Water Regulations. Air public water supplies. must
abide by these regulations. ~
Short-term: EPA has found heptachlor and its epoxide to
potentially cause the following health effects when people are
TRADE NAMES AND
SYNONYMS:
AAHEPTA
AGROCERES
HEPTA
HEPTACHLORDANE
HEPTAGRAN •
HEPTAMUL
HEPTOX
GOLD CREST H-60
RHODIACHLOR
VELSICOL 104
BASAKLOR
SOLEPTAX
TERMIDE
October 1995
Consumer Version
Printed on Recycled Paper
-------
exposed to it at levels above the MCL for relatively short periods of time: liver and
central nervous system damage.
Long-term: Heptachlor and its epoxide have the potential to cause the
following effects from a lifetime exposure at levels above the MCL: extensive liver
damage; cancer.
HOWMUCHHEPTACHLOR
IS PRODUCED AND
RELEASED TO THE
ENVIRONMENT?
WHAT HAPPENS TO
WHEN IT IS RELEASED TO
THE ENVIRONMENT?
Heptachlor may be released directly to the soil in connection with its use in
termite and fire ant control. However, heptachlor has been found in treated
wastewater from some types of industrial facilities. Production of heptachlor in
1982 was nearly 100,000 Ibs. . ' .
Heptachlor epoxide is not produced commercially, but rather is formed by the
chemical and biological transformation of heptachlor in the environment.
Heptachlor can evaporate from soil surfaces, and is degraded by bacteria once
it passes into the soil. Heptachlor is expected to adsorb strongly to soil and so
resist leaching to groundwater. Heptachlor epoxide also adsorbs strongly to soil
but is extremely resistantto biodegradation, persisting for many years in the upper
soil layers. Similarly in water, heptachlor will be broken down while the epoxide
will persist, usually in sediments.
Heptachlor epoxide is concentrated extensively in aquatic life. It is taken up into
the food chain by plants and bioconcentrates into fish, animals and milk.
The regulation for heptachlor became effective in 1992. Between 1993 and How WILL
1995, EPA required your water supplier to collect water samples every 3 months HEPTACHLOR
for one year and analyze them to find out if heptachlor is present above 0.04 ppb. BE DETECTED IN AND
If it is present above this level, the system must continue to monitor this
contaminant.
If contaminant levels are found to be consistently above the MCL, your water
supplier must take steps to reduce the amount of heptachlor so that it is
consistently below that level. The following treatment methods have been
approved by EPA for removing heptachlor: Granular activated charcoal.
If the levels of heptachlor exceed the MCL, 0.4 ppb, the system must notify the HOW WILL I KNOW IF
public via newspapers, radio, TV and other means. Additional actions, such as HEPTACHLOR is IN MY
providing alternative drinking water supplies, may be required to prevent serious DRINKING WATER?
risks to public health.
Learn more about your drinking water!
EPA strongly encourages people to learn more
about their drinking water, and to support local efforts
to protect and upgrade the supply of safe drinking
water. Your water bill or telephone book's govern-
ment listings are a good starting point.
Your local water supplier can give you a list of the
chemicals they test for in your water, as well as how
your water is treated.
Your state Department of Health/Environment is also a
valuable source of information.
For help in locating these agencies or for information on
drinking water in general, call:
EPA's Safe Drinking Water Hotline: (800) 426-4791.
For additional information on the uses and releases of
chemicals in your state, contact the:
Community Right-to-Know Hotline: (800) 535-0202.
-------
United States
Environmental Protection
Agency • -
Office of Water
4601
EPA811-F-95-003 s-C
' October 1995
National Primary Drinking
Water Regulations
Hexachlorobenzene
This is a factsheet about a chemicalthat may be found in some public
or private drinking water supplies. It may cause health problems if
found in amounts greater than the health standard set by the United
States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
DRINKING WATER
STANDARDS:
MCLG:
MCL:
ZERO
1 PPB
WHAT is
HEXACHLOROBEN-
ZENE
AND HOW IS IT iJSED?
WHYIS HEXACHLORO-
BENZENE
BEING REGULATED?
WHATARETHE
HEALTH EFFECTS?
Hexachlorobenzene (HCB) is an organic solid of white crystalline needles. It is
produced as a by-product from the manufacture of a variety of other regulated
organic chemicals. It is also a contaminant in the production of some pesticides.
The greatest use of HCB is in making other organic compounds such as rubber,
dyes, wood preservatives. Other uses of include: as a fungicide on grains,
especially wheat.
The list of trade names given below may help you find out whether you are using
this chemical at home or work.
In 1974, Congress passed the Safe Drinking Water Act. This law requires EPA
to determine safe levels of chemicals in drinking water which do or may cause
health problems. These non-enforceable levels, based solely on possible health
risks and exposure, are called Maximum Contaminant Level Goals.
The MCLG for HCB has been set at zero because EPA believes this level of
protection would not cause any of the potential health problems described below.
Based oh this MCLG, EPA has set an enforceable standard called a Maximum
Contaminant Level (MCL). MCLs are set as close to the MGLGs as possible,
considering the ability of public water systems to detect and
remove contaminants using suitable treatment technologies.
The MCL has been set at 1 part per billion (ppb) because EPA
believes, given present technology and resources, this is the
lowest level to which water systems can reasonably be required
to remove this contaminant should it occur in drinking water.
These drinking water standards and the regulations for ensur-
ing these standards are met, are called National Primary Drinking
Water Regulations. All public water supplies must abide by these
regulations. " ^
Short-term: EPA has found HCB to potentially cause the
following health effects when people are exposed to it at levels
above the MCL for relatively short periods of time: skin lesions,
nerve and liver damage.
Long-term: HCB has the potential to cause the following
effects from a lifetime exposure at levels above the MCL: damage
TRADE NAMES AND
SYNONYMS:
HEXA CB
HCB
PHENYL
, PERCHLORYL
PERCHLOROeENZENE
CHLORIDE
ANTICARIE
BUNT-CURE „
CO-OP HEXA
JULIN'S CARBON •
CHLORIDE '
NO BUNT 40
No BUNT 80
SANOCIDE " '
SNIECIOTOX
SMUT-GO
GRANOX NM
VORONIT C
October1995
Consumer Version
Printed on Recycled Paper
-------
RELEASES TO WATER AND LAND:
1987 TO 1993
TOTALS (in pounds)
Top States
LA
TX
Major Industries
Alkalies, chlorine
Agricultural chemicals
Water
1,286
677
609
854
297
Land
1
1
0
i
0
to liver and kidneys; reproductive effects;
benign tumors of endocrine glands; can-
cer.
In 1982, imports were reported to be
38,000 Ibs, with no evidence of commercial
domestic production. However, 2 to 5 mil-
lion Ibs may be generated each year as a
waste by-product of chlorination processes
in chemical manufacture. ,
Major environmental releases of HCB
are due to air and water discharges from its
production as a by-product of chemical manufacture, or from pesticide applica-
tions. It is also released by some waste incineration processes. It has been
detected in treated waste water from non-ferrous metal manufacturing.
From 1987 to 1993, according to EPA's Toxic Chemical Release Inventory,
HCB releases to land and water totalled 1,287 Ibs., all of which was to water.
These releases were primarily from alkali, chlorine and agricultural chemical
industries. The largest releases occurred in Louisiana and Texas.
HCB is a very persistent environmental chemical due to its chemical stability
and resistance to break down by microbes in soil or water. HCB strongly to soils
and to lake and river sediments. It is not likely to migrate through soil to ground
water. Hexachlorobenzene will accumulate in fish. It has been detected in food
during market basket surveys.
The regulation for HCB became effective in 1994. Between 1993 and 1995,
EPA required yourwatersupplierto collect water samples every 3 monthsfor one
year and analyze them to find out if HCB is present above 0.1 ppb. If it is present
above this level, the system must continue to monitor this contaminant.
If contaminant levels are found to be consistently above the MCL, your water
supplier must take steps to reduce the amount of HCB so that it is consistently
below that level. The following treatment methods have been approved by EPA
for removing HCB: Granular activated charcoal.
If the levels of HCB exceed the MCL, 1 ppb, the system must notify the public
via newspapers, radio, TV and other means. Additional actioris, such as providing
alternative drinking water supplies, may be required to prevent serious risks to
public health.
How MUCH HEXACHLO-
ROBENZENE
IS PRODUCED AND
RELEASED TO THE
ENVIRONMENT?
WHATHAPPENSTO
HEXACHLOROBENZENE
WHEN IT IS RELEASED TO
THE ENVIRONMENT?
HOW WILL
HEXACHLOROBENZENE
BE DETECTED IN AND
REMOVED FROM
MY DRINKING WATER?
HOW WILL I KNOW IF
HEXACHLOROBENZENE is
IN MY DRINKING WATER?
Learn more about your drinking water!
EPA strongly encourages people to'team more Your state Department of Health/Environment is also a
abouttheir drinking water, and to support local efforts valuable source of information.
to protect and upgrade the supply of safe drinking por ne|p jn locating these agencies or for information on
water. Your water bill or telephone book's govern- drinking water in general, call:
ment listings are a good starting point. EPA's Safe Drinking Water Hotline: (800) 426-4791.
Your local water supplier can give you a list of the For additional information on the uses and releases of
chemicals they test for in your water, as well as how chemicals in your state, contact the:
your water is treated. Community Right-to-Know Hotline: (800) 535-0202.
Page 2
-------
United States
Environmental Protection
Agency
Office of Water
4601
EPA 811-F-95-OO3 t-C
October 1995
»EFA National Primary Drinking
Water Regulations
Hexachlorocyclopentadiene
This is a factsheet about a chemical that may be found in some public
or private drinking water supplies. It may cause health problems if
found in amounts greater than the health standard set by the United
States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
DRINKING WATER
STANDARDS:
MCLG:
MCL: ;
50 PPB
50 PPB
WHAT is
HEX
AND HOW IS IT USED?
, Hexachlorocyclopentadiene (HEX) is an oily, yellow-green organic liquid with
a pungent odor. Its greatest use is as a raw material in manufacturing other
chemicals, including pesticides, flame retardants, resins, dyes, Pharmaceuticals,
plastics, etc. HEX has no end uses of its own.
The list of trade names given below may help you find out whether you are using
this chemical at home or work.
WHY is HEX
BEING REGULATED?
WHAT ARE THE
HEALTH EFFECTS?
In 1974, Congress passed the Safe Drinking Water Act. This law requires EPA
to determine safe levels of chemicals in drinking water which do or may cause
health problems. These non-enforceable levels, based solely on possible health
risks and exposure, are called Maximum Contaminant Level Goals.
The MCLG for HEX has been set at 50 parts per-billion (ppb) because EPA
believes this level of protection would not cause any of the potential health
problems described below.
Based on this MCLG, EPA has set an enforceable standard called a Maximum
Contaminant Level (MCL). MCLs are set as close to the MCLGs as possible,
considering the ability of public water systems to detect and remove contaminants
using suitable treatment technologies.
The MCL has been set at 50 ppb because EPA believes, given present
technology and resources, this is the lowest level to which water systems can
reasonably be required to remove this contaminant should it occur in drinking
water.
These drinking water standards and the regulations for ensuring these stan-
dards are met, are called National Primary Drinking Water Regulations. All public
water supplies must abide by these regulations.
Short-term: EPA,has found HEX to potentially cause the
following health effects when people are exposed to it at levels
above the MCL for relatively short periods of time: gastrointes-
tinal distress; damage to liver, kidneys and heart.
Long-term: HEX has the potential to cause the following
effects from a lifetime exposure at levels above the MCL: damage
to the stomach and kidneys.
TRADE NAMES AND
SYNONYMS:
HEX
HEXACHLORO-
PENTADIENE
October 1995
Consumer Version
Printed on Recycled Paper
-------
It has been estimated that betweep 8 and 15 million Ibs. of HEX are produced
each year. Major sources of its release are emissions and contaminated waste-
water from facilities which manufacture or use this compound as a chemical
intermediate, and from the application of pesticides where it may remain as an
impurity. From 1987 to 1993, according to EPA's Toxic Chemical Release
Inventory, HEX releases to land and watertotalled only 78 Ibs., all of which was
to water. These releases were primarily from alkalis and chlorine industries. The
largest releases occurred in New York.
HEX is not a persistent environmental contaminant. If released to soil, it is likely
to adhere to soil where it will be degraded by microbes. In water it evaporates
quickly and is attacked by sunlight and other reactive chemicals. Its tendency to
accumulate in aquatic life varies greatly from one species to another.
The regulation for HEX became effective in 1994. Between 1993 and 1995,
EPA required your water supplier to collect water samples every 3 months for one
year and analyze them to find out if HEX is present above 0.2 ppb. If it is present
above this level, the system must continue to monitor this contaminant.
If contaminant levels are found to be consistently above the MCL, your water
supplier must take steps to reduce the amount of HEX so that it is consistently
below that level. The following treatment methods have been approved by EPA
for removing HEX: Granular activated charcoal combined with Packed tower
aeration.
If the levels of HEX exceed the MCL, 50 ppb, the system must notify the public
via newspapers, radio, TV and other means. Additional actions, such as providing
alternative drinking water supplies, may be required to prevent serious risks to
public health.
How MUCH HEX
IS PRODUCED AND
RELEASED TO THE
ENVIRONMENT?
WHAT HAPPENS TO
HEX
WHEN IT IS RELEASED TO
THE ENVIRONMENT?
HOWWILL
HEX
BE DETECTED IN AND
REMOVED FROM
MY DRINKING WATER?
HOW WILL I KNOW IF
HEX is IN MY DRINKING
WATER?
Learn more about your drinking water!
EPA strongly encourages people to learn more
abouttheir drinking water, and to support local efforts
to protect and upgrade the supply of safe drinking
water. Your water bill or telephone book's govern-
ment listings are a good starting point.
Your local water supplier can give you a list of the
chemicals they test for in your water, as well as how
your water is treated.
Your state Department of Health/Environment is also a
valuable source of information.
For help in locating these agencies or for information on
drinking water in general, call:
EPA's Safe Drinking Water Hotline: (800) 426-4791.
For additional information on the uses and releases of
chemicals in your state, contact the:
Community Right-to-Know Hotline: (800) 535-0202.
October 1995
Consumer Version
Page 2
-------
United States
Environmental Protection
Agency
Office of Water
4601
EPA811-F-95-Q03 u-C
October 1995
&EFA National Primary Drinking
Water Regulations
Lindane
This is a factsheet about a chemical that may be found in some public
or private drinking water supplies. It may cause health problems if
found in amounts greater than the health standard set by the United
States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
DRINKING WATER
STANDARDS:
MCLG:
MCL:
0.2 PPB
0.2 PPB
WHAT is
LINDANE
AND HOW IS IT USED?
WHY is LINDANE
BEING REGULATED?
WHATARETHE
HEALTH EFFECTS?
Lindane is a white crystalline organic solid. Most uses being restricted in 1983,
lindane is currently used primarily for treating wood-inhabiting beetles and seeds.
It is also used as a dip for fleas and lice on pets, and livestock, for soil treatment,
on the foliage of fruit and nut trees, vegetables, timber, ornamentals and for wood
protection. ;
The list of trade names given below may help you find out whether you are using
this chemical at home or work.
In 1974, Congress passed the Safe Drinking Water Act. This law requires EPA
to determine safe levels of chemicals in drinking water which do or may cause
health problems. These non-enforceable levels, based solely on possible health
risks and exposure, are called Maximum Contaminant Level Goals.
The MCLG for lindane has been set at 0.2 parts per billion (ppb) because EPA
believes this level of protection would not cause any of the potential health
problems described below.
Based on this MCLG, EPA has set an enforceable standard called a Maximum
Contaminant Level (MCL). MCLs are set as close to the MCLGs as possible,
considering the ability of public water systems to detect and remove contaminants
using suitable treatment technologies.
The MCL has been set at 0.2 ppb because EPA believes, given present
technology and resources, this is the lowest level to which water
systems can reasonably be required to remove this contaminant
should it occur in drinking water.
These drinking water standards and the regulations for ensur-
ing these standards are met, are called National Primary Drinking
Water Regulations. All public water supplies must abide by these
regulations.
Short-term: EPA has found lindane to potentially cause the
following health effects when people are exposed to it at levels
above the MCL for relatively short periods of time; high body
temperature and pulmonary edema.
Long-term: Lindane has the potential to cause the following
TRADE NAMES AND
SYNONYMS:
GAMMA-
HEXACHLORO-
CYCLOHEXANE
EXAGAMMA
FORUN
GAU.OGAMMA
GAMMAPHEX
INEXIT
KWELL
UNDAGRANOX
LlNDATERRA
L.OVIGRAM
SlLVANOL
October 1995
Consumer Version
Printed on Recycled Paper
-------
effects from a lifetime exposure at levels above the MCL: liver and kidney
damage.
Lindane enters surface water as a result of runoff from agricultural land and from
home and garden applications where it is used as an insecticide.
From 1987 to 1993, according to EPA's Toxics Release Inventory, lindane
releases to land and water totalled 1115 Ibs.
How MUCH LINDANE
IS PRODUCED AND
RELEASED TO THE
ENVIRONMENT?
When released to water, lindane is not broken down by microbes, but it is
attacked by chemicals in basic waters. It is degraded by soil microbes, and may
evaporate from the surface, or slowly leach to ground water. Lindane will
accumulate slightly in fish and shellfish.
The regulation for lindane became effective in 1992. Between 1993 and 1995,
EPA required your water supplier to collect water samples every 3 months for one
year and analyze them to find out if lindane ,is present above 0.02 ppb. If it is
present above this level, the system must continue to monitor this contaminant.
If contaminant levels are found to be consistently above the MCL, your water
supplier must take steps to reduce the amount of lindane so that it is consistently
below that level. The following treatment methods have been approved by EPA
for removing lindane: Granular activated charcoal.
WHATHAPPENS TO
LINDANE
WHEN IT IS RELEASED TO
THE ENVIRONMENT?
HOW WILL
LINDANE
BE DETECTED IN AND
REMOVED FROM
MY DRINKING WATER?
If the levels of lindane exceed the MCL, 0.2 ppb, the system must notify the
public via newspapers, radio, TV and other means. Additional actions, such as
providing alternative drinking water supplies, may be required to prevent serious
risks to public health. ,
HOW WILL I KNOW IF
LINDANE is IN MY DRINK-
ING WATER?
Learn more about your drinking water!
EPA strongly encourages people to learn more Your state Department of Health/Environment is also a
abouttheir drinking water, and to support local efforts valuable source of information.
to protect and upgrade the supply of safe drinking For ne|p jn |ocatjng these, agencies or for information on
water. Your water bill or telephone book's govern- drinking water in general, call:
ment listings are a good starting point. EPA's Safe Drinking Water Hotline: (800) 426-4791.
Your local water supplier can give you a list of the For additional information on the uses and releases of
chemicals they test for in your water, as well as how chemicals in your state, contact the:
your water is treated. Community Right-to-Know Hotline: (800) 535-0202.
October 1995
Consumer Version
Page 2
-------
United States
Environmental Protection
Agency ,
Office of Water
4601
EPA811-F-95-003 v-C
October 1995
National Primary Drinking
Water Regulations •
Methoxychlor
This is a factsheet about a chemical that may be found in some public
or private drinking water supplies. It may cause health problems if
found in amounts greater than the health standard set by the United
States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
DRINKING WATER
STANDARDS: ,
MCLG:
Mcu:
40 PPB
40 PPB
WHAT is
METHOXYCHLOR
AND HOW IS IT USED?
Methoxychlor is a colorless organic solid with a slightly fruity odor. It is an
insecticide preferred to DQT for use on animals, in animal feed, and on DDT-
sensitive crops such as squash, melons, etc. Since methoxychlor is more
, unstable than DDT, it has less residual effect. It has been used extensively,in
Canadaforthe control of biting flies/and is also effective against mosquitoes and
houseflies.
The list of trade names given below may help you find out whether you are using
this chemical at home or work.
WHY is METHOXY-
CHLOR
BEING REGULATED?
WHAT ARE THE
HEALTH EFFECTS?
In 1974, Congress passed the Safe Drinking Water Act. ThisJaw requires EPA
to determine safe levels of chemicals in drinking water which do or may cause
health problems. These non-enforceable levels, based solely on possible health
risks and exposure, are called Maximum Contaminant Level Goals.
The MCLG for methoxychlor has been set at 40 parts per billion (ppb) because
EPA believes this level of protection would not cause any of the potential health
problems described below.
. Based on this MCLG, EPA has set an enforceable standard called a Maximum
Contaminant Level (MCL). MCLs are set as close to the MCLGs as possible,
considering the ability of public water systems to detectand remove contaminants
using suitable treatment technologies.
The MCL has been set at 40 ppb because EPA believes, given present
technology and resources, this is the lowest level to which water systems can
reasonably be required to remove this contaminant should it occur in drinking
water.
These drinking water standards and the regulations for ensur-
ing these standards are met, are called National Primary Drinking
Water Regulations. AH public water supplies must abide by these
regulations.
Short-term: EPA has found methoxychlor to potentially cause
the following health effects when people are exposed to it at levels
above the MGL for relatively short periods of time: central nervous
system depression, diarrhea, and damage to liver, kidney and
TRADE NAMES AND
SYNONYMS:
DlMETHOXY-DDT
METHOXY-DDT
CHEMFORM
MARALATE
METHOXO
METHOXCIDE
METOX
MOXIE-
October 1995
Consumer Version
Printed on Recycled Paper
-------
heart tissue.
Long-term: Methoxychlor has the potential to cause the following effects from
a lifetime exposure at levels above the MCL: damage to liver, kidney and heart
tissue; retards growth.
Production of methoxychlor has decreased: from 3.7 million Ibs. in 1978 to
700,000 Ibs in 1982. Release of methoxychlor to the environment occurs due to
its use as an insecticide and from losses during the manufacture, formulation,
packaging, and disposal of methoxychlor.
From 1987 to 1993, according to EPA's Toxic Chemical Release Inventory,
methoxychlor releases to land and water totalled only about 2000 Ibs.
Methoxychlordoes nottend to persist when released to soil or water. If released
to soil, methoxychlor will adhere to soils, though some may leach into groundwa-
ter as suggested by the detection of methoxychlor in some groundwater samples.
It is broken down by soil and sediment microbes under some conditions. In water,
methoxychlor degrades quite rapidly - within days compared to months as in soil.
It may accumulate in some shellfish, but not in fish.
The regulation for methoxychlor became effective in 1992. Between 1993 and
1995, EPA required your water supplier to collect water samples every 3 months
foroneyearand analyze them to find out if methoxychlor is present above 0.1 ppb.
If it is present above this level, the system must continue to monitor this
contaminant.
If contaminant levels are found to be consistently above the MCL, your water
supplier must take steps to reduce the amount of methoxychlor so that it is
consistently below that level. The following treatment methods have been
approved by EPA for removing methoxychlor: Granular activated charcoal.
If the levels of methoxychlor exceed the MCL, 40 ppb, the system must notify
the public via newspapers, radio, TV and other means. Additional actions, such
as providing alternative drinking water supplies, may be required to prevent
serious risks to public health.
How MUCH METHOXY-
CHLOR
IS PRODUCED AND
RELEASED TO THE
ENVIRONMENT?
WHAT HAPPENS TO
METHOXYCHLOR
WHEN IT IS RELEASED TO
THE ENVIRONMENT?
HOW WILL
METHOXYCHLOR
BE DETECTED IN AND
REMOVED FROM
MY DRINKING WATER?
HOW WILL I KNOW IF
METHOXYCHLOR is IN MY
DRINKING WATER?
Learn more about your drinking water!
EPA strongly encourages people to learn more
about theirdrinking water, and to support local efforts
to protect and upgrade the supply of safe drinking
water. Your water bill or telephone book's govern-
ment listings are.a good starting point.
Your local water supplier can give you a list of the
chemicals they test for in your water, as well as how
your water is treated.
Your state Department" of Health/Environment is also a
valuable source of information.
For help in locating these agencies or for information on
drinking water in general, call:
EPA's Safe Drinking Water Hotline: (800) 426-4791.
For additional information 'on the uses and releases of
chemicals in your state, contact the:
Community Right-to-Know Hotline: (800) 535-0202.
October 1995
Consumer version
Page 2
-------
United States
Environmental Protection
Agency
Office of Water
4601
EPA811-F-95-003 w-T
October 1995
•S-EFA National Primary Drinking
Water Regulations
Oxamyl (Vydate)
This Is a factsheet about a chemical that may be found in some public
or private drinking water supplies. It may cause health problems if
found in amounts greater than the health standard set by the United
States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
DRINKING WATER
STANDARDS:
MCLG:
MCL:
0.2 PPM
0.2 PPM'
WHAT is
-OXAMYL
AND HOW IS IT USED?
Oxamyl is a white crystalline organic solid with a slight sulfurous odor. It is widely
used for control of insects, mites and nematodes on field crops, fruits and
ornamentals. The majority of oxamyl is applied to apples, potatoes, and tomatoes
The list of trade names given below may help you find out whether you are using
this chemical at homeJor work.
WHY is OXAMYL
BEING REGULATED?
In 1974, Congress passed the Safe Drinking Water Act. This law requires EPA
to determine safe levels of chemicals in drinking water which do or may cause
health problems. These non-enforceable levels, based solely on possible health
risks and exposure, are called Maximum Contaminant Level Goals.
The MCLG for oxamyl has been set at 0.2 parts per million (ppm) because EPA
believes this level of protection would not cause any of the potential health
problems described below. ,
Based on this MCLG, EPA has set an enforceable standard called a Maximum
Contaminant Level (MCL). MCLs are set as close to the MCLGs as possible,
considering the ability of public water systems to detect and remove contaminants
using suitable treatment technologies.
The MCL has been set at 0.2 ppm because EPA believes, given present
technology and resources, this is the lowest level to which water systems can
reasonably be required to remove this contaminant should it occur in drinking
water.
These drinking water standards and the regulations for ensuring these stan-
dards are met, are called National Primary Drinking Water Regulations. All public
water supplies must abide by these regulations.
WHAT ARE THE
HEALTH EFFECTS?
October 1995
Short-term: EPA has found oxamyl to potentially cause the
following health effects when people are exposed to it at levels
above the MCL for relatively short periods of time: tremors,
salivation and tearing due to interference with nerve function.
Long-term: Oxamyl has the potential to cause the following
effects from a lifetime exposure at levels above the MCL: der
creased body weight.
TRADE NAMES AND
SYNONYMS:
VYDATE K
THIOXAMYL
DIOXAMYL
.DPX1410
, DUPQNT 1410
Consumer Version
Printed on Recycled Paper
-------
Oxamyl is released directly to the environment in its use as an insecticide and
during its manufacture, handling and storage. EPA estimated that 400,000 Ibs. of
oxamyl were produced in the US in 1982.
Oxamyl is highly soluble in water, and is relatively stable in acidic waters.
Otherwise it is readily broken down. Degradation is also rapid iin soils which makes
it unlikely that oxamyl will leach to ground water. Accumulation in aquatic life is
not expected as oxamyl is rapidly absorbed, metabolized and eliminated in
toxicological tests.
i
The regulation for oxamyl became effective in 1994. Between 1993 and 1995,
EPA required your water supplier to collect water samples every 3 months for one
year and analyze them to find out if oxamyl is present above 2 parts per billion.
If it is present above this level, the system must continue to monitor this
contaminant. ,
If contaminant levels are found to be consistently above the MCL, your water
supplier must take steps to reduce the amount of oxamyl so that it is consistently
below that level. The following treatment methods have been approved by EPA
for removing oxamyl: Granular activated charcoal.
How MUCH OXAMYL
IS PRODUCED AND
RELEASED TO THE
ENVIRONMENT?
WHAT HAPPENS TO
OXAMYL
WHEN IT IS RELEASED TO
THE ENVIRONMENT?
HOW WILL
OXAMYL
BE DETECTED IN AND
REMOVED FROM
MY DRINKING WATER?
If the levels of oxamyl exceed the MCL, 0.2 ppm, the system must notify the
public via newspapers, radio, TV and other means. Additional actions, such as
providing alternative drinking water supplies, may be required to prevent serious
risks to public health.
HOW WILL I KNOW IF
OXAMYL is IN MY DRINK-
ING WATER?
Learn more about your drinking water!
EPA strongly encourages people to leam more Your state Department of Health/Environment is also a
abouttheir drinking water, and to support local efforts valuable source of information.
to protect and upgrade the supply of safe drinking por he|p jn |ocating these agencies or for information on
water. Your water bill or telephone book's govern- drinking water in general, call:
ment listings are a good starting point. EPA's Safe Drinking Water Hotline: (800) 426-4791.
Your local water supplier can give you a list of the For additional information on the uses and releases of
chemicals they test for in your water, as well as how chemicals in your state, contact the:
your water is treated. Community Right-to-Know Hotline: (800) 535-0202.
October 1995
Consumer Version
Page 2
-------
United States
Environmental Protection
Agency
Office of Water
4601
EPA 811-F-95-003 x-C
October 1995
«-EB\ National Primary Drinking
Water Regulations
Pentachlorophenol
This is a factsheet about a chemical that may be found in some public
or private drinking water supplies. It may cause health problems if
found in amounts greater than the health standard set by the United
States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
DRINKING WATER
STANDARDS:
, MCLG:
MCL:
ZERO
1 PPB
WHAT is
PENTACHLOROPHENOL
AND HOW IS IT USED?
WHY is
PENTACHLOROPHENOL
BEING REGULATED?
WHAT ARE THE .
HEALTH EFFECTS?
Pentachlorophenol (PCP) is a white organic solid with needle-like crystals and
a phenolic odor. The greatest use of pentachlorophenol is as a wood preservative
(fungicide). Though once widely used as an herbicide, it was banned in 1987 for
these and other uses, as well as for any over-the-counter sales. \
The list of trade names given below may help you find out whether you are using
this chemical at home or work.
In 1974, Congress passed the Safe Drinking Water Act. This law requires EPA
to determine safe levels of chemicals in drinking water which do or may cause
health problems. These non-enforceable levels, based solely on possible health
risks and exposure, are called Maximum Contaminant Level Goals.
The MCLG for pentachlorophenol has been set at zero because EPA believes
this level of protection would not cause any of the potential health problems
described below.
Based on this MCLG, EPA has set an enforceable standard
called a Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL). MCLs are set as
close to the MCLGs as possible, considering the ability of public
water systems to detect and remove contaminants using suitable
treatment technologies.
The MCL has been set at 1 part per billion (ppb) because EPA
believes, given present technology and resources, this is the
lowest level to which water systems can reasonably be required
to remove this contaminant should it occur in drinking water.
These drinking water standards and the regulations for ensur-
ing these standards are met, are called National Primary Drinking
Water Regulations. All public water supplies must abide by these
regulations.
Short-term: EPA has found pentachlorophenol to potentially
cause the following health effects when people are exposed to it
at levels above the MCL for relatively short periods of time:
damage to the central nervous system
Long-term: Pentachlorophenol has the potential to cause the
following effects from a lifetime exposure at levels above the
TRADE NAMES AND
SYNONYMS:
PCP
PENCHLOROL
DOWICIDE 7
PERMASAN
FUNGIFEN
GRUNDIER
ARBEZOL
LAUXTOL
LlROPREM
CHLON
DllRATREETll
SANTOPHEN 20
WOODTREAT
PENTA READY
PENTAWR
FORPEN-50
ONTRACKWE
HERBICIDE
ORTHOTRIOX
OSMOSE WPC
WATERSHED WP
WEED AND
BRUSH KILLERH
October 1995
Consumer Version
Printed on Recycled Paper
-------
RELEASES TO WATER AND LAND:
1987 TO 1993
Water
TOTALS (in pounds) 18,700
Top Five Stales
NV
OR
WA
AR
GA
Major Industries
Explosives
Wood preserving
Misc. Chemicals
0
4.313
3.310
2,735
783
0
17,720
250
Land
79,780
64,100
5,405
5,995
1,615
1,255
34,100
15,678
30,000
•Water/Land totals only include facilities with
releases greater than a certain amount - usually
1000 to 10,000 Ibs.
MCL: reproductive effects and damage to
liver and kidneys; cancer.
Production of pentachlorophenol was 45
million Ibs in 1983. It may be released to the
environment as a result of its manufacture,
storage, transport, or use as an industrial
wood preservative.
From 1987 to 1993, according to EPA's
Toxic Chemical Release Inventory, releases
to land and water totalled nearly 100,000
Ibs. The most widespread releases were
primarily from wood preserving industries
in many states. However, the greatest vol-
ume of releases occurred at. a military mu-
nitions plant in Nevada.
When released to soil or water, PCP will be slowly broken down by microbes
and may gradually leach into ground water. If released in water, it will adsorb to
sediment, or be degraded by sunlight. Its accumulation in fish will be moderate.
The regulation for pentachlorophenol became effective in 1992. Between 1993
and 1995, EPA required your water supplier to collect water samples every 3
months for one year and analyze them to find out if pentachlorophenol is present
above 0.04 ppb. If it is present above this level, the system must continue to
monitor this contaminant.
If contaminant levels are found to be consistently above the MCL, your water
supplier must take steps to reduce the amount of pentachlorophenol so that it is
consistently below that level. The following treatment methods have been
approved by EPA for removing pentachlorophenol: Granular activated charcoal.
If the levels of pentachlorophenol exceed the MCL, 1 ppb, the system must
notify the public via newspapers, radio, TV and other means. Additional actions,
such as providing alternative drinking water supplies, may be required to prevent
serious risks to public health.
How MUCH PENTACHLO-
ROPHENOL
IS PRODUCED AND
RELEASED TO THE
ENVIRONMENT?
WHATHAPPENSTO
PENTACHLOROPHENOL
WHEN IT IS RELEASED TO
THE ENVIRONMENT?
HOW WILL
PENTACHLOROPHENOL
BE DETECTED IN AND
REMOVED FROM
MY DRINKING WATER?
HOW WILL I KNOW IF
PENTACHLOROPHENOLis
IN MY DRINKING WATER?
Learn more about your drinking water!
EPA strongly encourages people to leam more
abouttheir drinking water, and to support local efforts
to protect and upgrade the supply of safe drinking
water. Your water bill or telephone book's govern-
ment listings are a good starting point.
Your local water supplier can give you a list of the
chemicals they test for in your water, as well as how
your water is treated.
Your state Department of Health/Environment is also a
valuable source of information.
For help in locating these agencies or for information on
drinking water in general, call:
EPA's Safe Drinking Water Hotline: (800) 426-4791.
For additional information on the uses and releases of
chemicals in your state, contact the:
Community Right-to-Know Hotline: (800) 535-0202.
October 1995
Consumer Version
Page 2
-------
United States
Environmental Protection
Agency
Office of Water
4601
EPA811-F-95-003 y-C
. . October 1995
National Primary Drinking
Water Regulations
Phthalate, di (2-ethylhexyl)
This is a factsheet about a chemical that may be found in some public
or private drinking water supplies. It may cause health problems if
found in amounts greater than the health standard set by the United
States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
DRINKING WATER
STANDARDS:
MCLG:
MCL:
ZERO
6PPB
WHAT is
PHTHALATE
AND HOW IS IT USED?
WHY is PHTHALATE
BEING REGULATED?
WHAT ARE THE
HEALTH EFFECTS?
Di (2-ethylhexyl) Phthalate, or DEHP, is the most commonly used of a group of
related chemicals called phthalates or phthalic acid esters. The greatest use of
DEHP is as a plasticizerfor polyvinylchloride (PVC) and other polymers including
rubber, cellulose and styrene. A number of packaging materials and tubings used
in the production of foods and beverages are polyvinyl chloride contaminated with
phthalic acid esters, primarily DEHP.
The list of trade names given below may help you find out whether you are using
this chemical at home or work.
In 1974, Congress passed the Safe Drinking Water Act. This
to determine safe levels of chemicals in drinking water which
health problems. These non-enforceable levels, based solely
on possible health risks and exposure, are called Maximum
Contaminant Level Goals.
The MCLG for phthalate has been set at zero because EPA
believes this level of protection would not cause any of the
potential health problems described bejow.
Based on this MCLG, EPA has set an enforceable standard
called a Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL). MCLs are set as
close to the MCLGs as possible, considering the ability of
, public water systems to detect and remove contaminants
using suitable treatment technologies..
The MCL has been set at 6 parts per billion (ppb) because
EPAbeJieves, given present technology and resources, this is
the lowest level to which water systems can reasonably be
required to remove this contaminant should it occur in drinking
water.
These drinking water standards and the regulations for
ensuring these standards are met, are called National Primary
Drinking Water Regulations. All public water supplies must
abide by these regulations.
Short-term: EPA has found phthalate to potentially cause
the following health effects when people are exposed to it at
law requires EPA
do or may cause
TRADE NAMES AND
SYNONYMS:
DEHP
BEHP
DlOCTYL PHTHALATE
PITTSBURGH PX-138
PLATINOL AH
RC PLASTICIZER
OOP
REOMOL D79P
SICOL 150
STAFLEX OOP
TRUFLEX OOP
VESTINOLAH
VINICIZER 80
PAIATINOLAH.
HERCOFLEX 260
KODAFLEX OOP '
MOLLAN O
NUOPLAZ OOP
OCTOIL
EVIPLAST 80
FLEXIMEL
FLEXOL OOP
GOOD-RITE GP264
HATCOL OOP
ERGOPLAST FDO
DAF68
BlSOFLEx81
October 1995
Consumer Version
Printed on Recycled Paper
-------
RELEASES TO WATER AND LAND:
1987 TO 1993
TOTALS* (in pounds)
Top Five States*
Wl
TN
OH
NJ
NY
Water
1 6,91 0
500
3,491
268
3,956
500
Major Industries
Misc rubber products 274
Rubber, plastic hose 10
Cyclic crudes, interned. 3,099
Land
471,191
255,000
80,419
62.982
23,139
13,284
311,900
80,019
12,200
• Water/Land totals only include facilities with
releases greaterthan 100 Ibs.
levels above the MCL for relatively short
periods of time: mild gastrointestinal dis-
turbances, nausea, vertigo.
Long-term: Phthalate has the potential
to cause the following effects from a lifetime
exposure at levels above the MCL: damage
to liver and testes; reproductive effects;
cancer.
Disposal of polyvinyl chloride and other
DEHP-containing materials by incineration,
landfill, etc., will result in the release of
DEHP into the environment. DEHP has
been detected in the effluent of numerous
industrial plants.
From 1987 to 1993, according to EPA's
Toxic Chemical Release Inventory, DEHP
releases to land and water totalled over 500,000 Ibs., of which about 95 percent
was to land. These releases were primarily from rubber and plastic hose
industries. The largest releases occurred in Wisconsin and Tennessee.
DEHP will adhere to soil, and so will neither evaporate nor leach into ground^
water. DEHP has a strong tendency to adsorb to soil and sediments. In water, it
will be degraded by microbes in a matter of weeks. DEHP does have a tendency
to accumulate in aquatic organisms.
The regulation for phthalate became effective in 1994. Between 1993 and 1995,
EPA required your water supplier to collect water samples every 3 months for one
year and analyze them to find out if phthalate is present above 0.6 ppb. If it is
present above this level, the system must continue to monitor this contaminant.
If contaminant levels are found to be consistently above the MCL, your water
supplier musttake steps to reduce the amount of phthalate so that it is consistently
below that level. The following treatment methods have been approved by EPA
for removing phthalate: Granular activated charcoal.
If the levels of phthalate exceed the MCL, 6 ppb, the system must notify the
public via newspapers, radio, TV and other means. Additional actions, such as
providing alternative drinking water supplies, may be required to prevent serious
risks to public health.
How MUCH PHTHALATE
IS PRODUCED AND
RELEASED TO THE
ENVIRONMENT?
WHAT HAPPENS TO
PHTHALATE
WHEN IT IS RELEASED TO
THE ENVIRONMENT?
HOW WILL
PHTHALATE
BE DETECTED IN AND
REMOVED FROM
MY DRINKING WATER?
HOW WILL I KNOW IF
PHTHALATE is IN MY
DRINKING WATER?
Learn more about your drinking water!
EPA strongly encourages people to learn more
about their drinking water, and to support local efforts
to protect and upgrade the supply of safe drinking
water. Your water bill or telephone book's govern-
ment listings are a good starting point.
Your local water supplier can give you a list of the
chemicals they test for in your water, as well as how
your water is treated.
Your state Department of Health/Environment is also a
valuable source of information.
For help in locating these agencies or for information on
drinking water in general, call:
EPA's Safe Drinking Water Hotline: (800) 426-4791.
For additional information on the uses and releases of
chemicals in your state, contact the:
Community Right-to-Know Hotline: (800) 535-0202.
October 1995
Consumer Version
Page 2
-------
United States
Environmental Protection
Agency
Office of Water
4601
EPA811-F-95-003 z-C
October 1995
&EPA National Primary Drinking
Water Regulations
Picloram
This is a factsheet about a chemical that may be found in some public
pr private drinking water supplies. It may cause health problems if
found in amounts greater than the health standard set by the United
States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
DRINKING WATER
STANDARDS:
. MCLG:
MCL:
0.5 PPM
0.5 PPM
WHAT is
PICLORAM
AND HOW IS IT USED?
Picloram is a crystalline organic solid with a chlorine-like odor. It is used in salt
form as a systemic herbicide for controlling annual weeds on crops, and in
combination with 2,4-D or 2,4,5-T agajnst perennials on non-croplands for brush
control. Picloram is used to control bitterweed, knapweed, leafy spurge, loco-
weed, larkspur, mesquite, prickly pear, and snakeweed on rangeland in the
western states.
The list of trade names given below may help you find out whether you are using
this chemical at home or work.
WHY is PICLORAM
BEING REGULATED?
WHAT ARE THE
HEALTH EFFECTS?
In 1974, Congress passed the Safe Drinking Water Act. This law requires EPA
to determine safe levels of chemicals in drinking water which do or may cause
health problems. These non-enforceable levels, based solely on possible health
risks and exposure, are called Maximum Contaminant Level Goals.
The MCLG for picloram has been setatO.5 parts per million (ppm) because EPA
believes this level of protection would not cause any of the potential health
problems described below.
Based on this MCLG, EPA has set an enforceable standard called a Maximum
Contaminant Level (MCL). MCLs are set as close to the MCLGs as possible,
considering the ability of public water systems to detect and remove contaminants
using suitable treatment technologies.
The MCL has also been set at 0:5 ppm because EPA believes, given present
technology and resources, this is the lowest level to which water systems can
reasonably be required to remove this contaminant should it occur in drinking
water.
These drinking water standards and the regulations for ensuring these stan-
dards are met, are called National Primary Drinking Water Regulations.AII public
water supplies must abide by these regulations. /
Short-term: EPA has found picloram to potentially cause the
following health effects when people are exposed to it at levels
above the MCL for relatively short periods of time: damage to
central nervous system, weakness, diarrhea, weight loss.
Long-term: Picloram has the potential to cause the following
TRADE NAMES AND
SYNONYMS:
"AGENT WHITE"
TORDON
October 1995
Consumer Version
Printed on Recycled Paper
-------
effects from a lifetime exposure at levels above the MCL: liver damage.
EPA estimates that 300,000 Ibs. of picloram were produced in the US in 1982.
Picloram is released to the environment primarily from its application as a
herbicide, and also during its production and handling,
Picloram is the most'persistent of its family of herbicides.
It does not adhere to soil and so may leach to groundwater, and has in fact been
detected there. It is degraded in soil and water mainly by microbes. Picloram has
very little tendency to accumulate in aquatic life.
The regulation for picloram became effective in 1994. Between 1993 and 1995,
EPA required your water supplier to collect water samples every 3 months for one
year and analyze them to find out if picloram is present above 0.1 part per billion.
If it is present above this level, the system must continue to monitor this
contaminant
If contaminant levels are found to be consistently above the MCL, your water
supplier must take steps to reduce the amount of picloram so that it is consistently
below that level. The following treatment methods have been approved by EPA
for removing picloram: Granular activated charcoal.
If the levels of picloram exceed the MCL, 0.5 ppm, the system must notify the
public via newspapers, radio, TV and other means. Additional actions, such as
providing alternative drinking water supplies, may be required to prevent serious
risks to public health.
How MUCH PICLORAM
IS PRODUCED AND
RELEASED TO THE
ENVIRONMENT?
WHATHAPPENSTO
PICLORAM
WHEN IT IS RELEASED TO
THE ENVIRONMENT?,
HOW WILL
PICLORAM
BE DETECTED IN AND
REMOVED FROM
MY DRINKING. WATER?
HOW WILL I KNOW IF
PICLORAM is IN MY
DRINKING WATER?
Learn more about your drinking water!
EPA strongly encourages people to leam more
about their drinking water, and to support local efforts
to protect and upgrade the supply of safe drinking
water. Your water bill or telephone book's govern-
ment listings are a good starting point.
Your local water supplier can give you a list of the
chemicals they test for in your water, as well as how
your water is treated.
Your state Department of Health/Environment is also a
valuable source of information.
For help in locating these agencies or for information on
drinking water in general, call:
EPA's Safe Drinking Water Hotline: (800) 426-4791.
For additional information on the uses and releases of
chemicals in your state, contact the:
Community Right-to-Know Hotline: (800) 535-0202.
October 1995
Consumer Version
Page 2
-------
United States
'Environmental Protection
Agency.
Office of Water
4601
EPA 811-F-95-003aa-C
October 1995
&EPA
National Primary Drinking
Water Regulations
Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs)
This is a factsheet about a chemical that may be found in some public
or private drinking water supplies. It may cause health problems if
found in amounts greater than the health standard set by the United
States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). <
DRINKING WATER
STANDARDS:
MCLG: , ZERO
MCL: 0.5 PPB
WHAT ARE
PCBs
AND HOW IS IT USED?
WHY ARE PCBs
BEING REGULATED?
WHATARETHE
HEALTH EFFECTS?
Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are a group of organic chemicals which can
be odorless or mildly aromatic solids or oily liquids. They were formerly used in the
USA as hydraulic fluids, plasticizers, adhesives, fire retardants, way extenders,
de-dusting agents, pesticide extenders, inks, lubricants, cutting oils, in heat
transfer systems, carbonless reproducing paper.
The list of trade names given below may help you find out whether you are using ,•
this chemical at home or work.
In 1974, Congress passed the Safe Drinking Water Act. This law requires EPA
to determine safe levels of chemicals in drinking water which do or may cause
health problems. These non-enforceable levels, based solely on possible health
risks and exposure, are called Maximum Contaminant Level Goals.
The MCLG for PCBs has been set at zero because EPA believes this level of
protection would not cause any of the potential health problems described below.
Based on this MCLG, EPA has set an enforceable standard called a Maximum
Contaminant Level (MCL). MCLs are set as close to the MCLGs as possible,
considering the ability of public water systems to detect and remove contaminants
using suitable treatment technologies.
The MCL has been set at 0.5 parts per billion (ppb) because EPA believes,
given present technology and resources, this is the lowest level
to which water systems can reasonably be required to remove
this contaminant should it occur in drinking water.
These drinking water standards and the regulations for ensur-
ing these standards are met, are called National Primary Drinking
Water Regulations. All public water supplies must abide by these
regulations.
-Short-term: EPA has found PCBs to potentially cause the
following health effects when people are exposed to it at levels
above the MCL for relatively short periods of time: acne-like
eruptions and pigmentation of the skin; hearing and vision prob-
lems; spasms.
Long-term: PCBs has the potential to cause the following
effects from a lifetime exposure at levels above the MCL: effects
TRADE NAMES AND
SYNONYMS:
PCB
CHLORINATED
DIPHENYL
CLOPHEN ;
KANECHLOR
AROCLOR
FENCLOR
CHLOREXTOL
DYKANOL
INERTEEN
MONTER
PYRALENE
SANTOTHERM
1 SOVOL
THERMINOL
NOFLAMOL
October 1995
Consumer Version
Printed on Recycled Paper
-------
RELEASES TO WATER AND LAND:
1987 TO 1993
TOTALS (in pounds)
Top Five States
CA
NJ
KY
WA
TN
Ma/or/ncfusfrfes
Non-ferrous wire
Steel pipe/tubing
Pulp mills
Water
784
0
0
250
0
255
0
0
0
Land
73,632
58,178
13,188
750
998
251
58,178
13,183
998
similarto acute poisonings; irritation of nose,
throat and gastrointestinal tracts; changes
in liver function; cancer.
Production of PCBs has decreased dras-
tically: from over 86 million Ibs. in 1970 to 35
million Ibs in 1977. Since EPA banned most
uses of PCBs in 1979, current releases are
due mainly to the cycling of this persistent
contaminant from soil to air to soil again.
PCBs are also currently released from land-
fills, incineration of municipal refuse and
sewage sludge, and improper (or illegal)
disposal of PCB materials, such as waste
transformer fluid, to open areas.
From 1987 to 1993, according to EPA's Toxic Chemical Release Inventory,
PCB releases to land and water totalled over 74,000 Ibs. The bulk of these
releases occurred in 1990 and were primarily from non-ferrous wire drawing and
insulating industries. The largest releases occurred in 'California.
PCBs are very persistent in soil and water, with no known break down
processes other than slow degradation by microbes. They adhere to soils or
evaporate, and so will not usually leach to ground water. PCB-contaminated
sediments in lakes or rivers can slowly release PCB back into water, from which
it eventually evaporates.
The regulation for PCBs became effective in 1992. Between 1993 and 1995,
EPA required your water supplierto collect water samples every 3 months for one
year and analyze them to find out if PCBs are present above some lowest
detectable level. If it is present above this level, which differs for each type of PCB,
the system must continue to monitor this contaminant.
If contaminant levels are found to be consistently above the MCL, your water
supplier must take steps to reduce the amount of PCBs so that it is consistently
below that level. The following treatment methods have been approved by EPA
for removing PCBs: Granular activated charcoal.
*
If the levels of PCBs exceed the MCL, 0.5 ppb, the system must notify the public
via newspapers, radio, TV and other means. Additional actions, such as providing
alternative drinking water supplies, may be required to prevent serious risks to
public health.
Learn more about your drinking water!
How MUCH PCBs
ARE PRODUCED AND
RELEASED TO THE
ENVIRONMENT?
WHAT HAPPENS TO
PCBs
WHEN RELEASED TO THE
ENVIRONMENT?
HOW WILL
PCBs
BE DETECTED IN AND
REMOVED FROM
MY DRINKING WATER?
HOW WILL I KNOW IF
PCBS ARE IN MY
DRINKING WATER?
EPA strongly encourages people to learn more
abouttheir drinking water, and to support local efforts
to protect and upgrade the supply of safe drinking
water. Your water bill or telephone book's govern-
ment listings are a good starting point.
Your local water supplier can give you a list of the
chemicals they test for in your water, as well as how
your water is treated.
Your state Department of Health/Environment is also a
valuable source of information.
For help in locating these agencies or for information on
drinking water in general, call:
EPA's Safe Drinking Water Hotline: (800) 426-4791.
For additional information on the uses and releases of
chemicals in your state, contact the:
Community Right-to-Know Hotline: (800) 535-0202.
October 1995
Consumer Version
Page 2
-------
United States
Environmental Protection
Agency
Office of Water
4601
EPA 811-F-95-OQ3bb-C
October 1995
•»EFA National Primary Drinking
Water Regulations
Simazine
This is a factsheet about a chemical that may be found in some public
or private drinking water supplies. It may cause health problems if
found in amounts greater than the health standard set by the United
States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
DRINKING WATER
STANDARDS:
MCLG:
MCL:
4 PPB
4 PPB
WHAT is
SIMAZINE
AND HOW IS IT USED?
WHY is SIMAZINE
BEING REGULATED?
WHAT ARE THE
HEALTH EFFECTS?
Simazine is an organic white solid, used as a pre-emergence herbicide used for
control of broad-leaved and grassy weeds on a variety of deep-rooted crops such
as artichokes, asparagus, berry crops, broad beans, citrus, etc., and on non-crop
areas such as farm ponds and fish hatcheries. Its major use is on corn where it
is often combined with AAtrex. Other herbicides with which simazine is combined
include: paraquat, on apples, peaches; Roundup or Oust for noncrop use; Surflan
on Christmas trees; Dual oh corn and ornamentals.
The list of trade names given below may help you find out whether you are using
this chemical at home or work.
In 1974, Congress passed the Safe Drinking Water Act. This law requires EPA
to determine safe levels of chemicals in drinking water which do or may cause
health problems. These non-enforceable levels, based solely on possible health
risks and exposure, are called Maximum Contaminant Level Goals.
The MCLG for simazine has been set at 4 parts per billion (ppb) because EPA
believes this level of protection would not cause any of the potential health
problems described below. ;
Based on this MCLG, EPA has set an enforceable standard
called a Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL), MCLs are set as
close to the MCLGs as possible, considering the ability of public
water systems to detect and remove contaminants using suitable
treatment technologies.
The MCL has also been set at 4 ppb because EPA believes,
given present technology and resources, this is the lowest level
to which water systems can reasonably be required to remove
this contaminant should it occur in drinking water.
These drinking water standards and the regulations for ensur-
ing these standards are met, are called National Primary Drinking
Water Regulations. All public water supplies must abide by these
regulations.
Short-term: EPA has found simazine to potentially cause the
following health effects when people are exposed to it at levels
TRADE NAMES AND
SYNONYMS:
AKTINIT
BATAZINA
BITEMOL
- CAT(HERBICIDE)
CDT
CEKUZINA-S
GEIGY 27,692
GESATOP
HERBAZIN
HERBEX
, HUNGAZIN
PREMAZINE
PRIMATOL S
PRICEP
PRINTOP
RADOCON
SIMADEX
TAFAZINE
ZEAPUR
October 1995
Consumer Version
Printed on Recycled Paper
-------
above the MCL for relatively short periods of time: weight loss, changes in blood.
Long-term: Simazine has the potential to cause the following effects from a
lifetime exposure at levels above the MCL: tremors; damage to testes, kidneys,
liver and thyroid; gene mutations; cancer.
The amount of simazine used annually in the USA was estimated in 1985 to be
4.8 billion pounds. Simazine may be released into the environment via effluents
at manufacturing sites and at points of application where it is employed as a
herbicide.
If released to water, simazine will not bind to sediments or evaporate. It may
leach to ground water. Its persistence varies from a few months to a few years,
depending mainly on the rate of degradation by microbes. Simazine has a low
potential to bioaccumulate in fish.
The regulation for simazine became effective in 1994. Between 1993 and 1995,
EPA required your water supplierto collect water samples every 3 months for one
year and analyze them to find out if simazine is present above 0.07 ppb. If it is
present above this level, the system must continue to monitor this contaminant.
If contaminant levels are found to be consistently above the MCL, your water
supplier musttake steps to reduce the amount of simazine so that it is consistently
below that level. The following treatment methods have been approved by EPA
for removing simazine: Granular activated charcoal.
i >.
If the levels of simazine exceed the MCL, 4 ppb; the system must notify the
public via newspapers, radio, TV and other means. Additional actions, such as
providing alternative drinking water supplies, may be required to prevent serious
risks to public health.
How MUCH SIMAZINE
IS PRODUCED AND
RELEASED TO THE
ENVIRONMENT?
WHAT HAPPENS TO
SIMAZINE
WHEN IT IS RELEASED TO
THE ENVIRONMENT?
HOW WILL
SIMAZINE
BE DETECTED IN AND
REMOVED FROM
MY DRINKING WATER?
HOW WILL I KNOW IF
SIMAZINE is IN MY
DRINKING WATER?
Learn more about your drinking water!
EPA strongly encourages people to learn more.
about their drinking water, and to support local efforts
to protect and upgrade the supply of safe drinking
water. Your water bill or telephone book's govern-
ment listings are a good starting point.
Your local water supplier can give you a list of the
chemicals they test for in your water, as well as how
your water is treated.
Your state Department of Health/Environment is also a
valuable source of information.
For help in locating these agencies or for information on
drinking water in general, call:
EPA's Safe Drinking Water Hotline: (800) 426-4791.
For additional information on the uses and .releases of
chemicals in your state, contact the:
Community Right-to-Know Hotline: (800) 535-0202.
-------
United States
Environmental Protection
Agency
Office of Water
4601
EPA 811-F-95-003cc-C
October T995
»EFA .National Primary Drinking
Water Regulations -
Toxaphene
This is a factsheet about a chemical that may be found in some public
or private drinking water supplies. It may cause health problems if
found in amounts greater than the health standard set by the United
States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
DRINKING WATER
STANDARDS:
MCLG:
Met:
ZERO
SPPB
WHAT is
TOXAPHENE
AND HOW IS IT USED?
WHY is TOXAPHENE
BEING REGULATED?
WHATARETHE
HEALTH EFFECTS?
Toxaphene is an amber, waxy organic solid with a piney odor. Toxaphene was
used as an insecticide for cotton and vegetables, and on livestock and poultry.
These uses have been restricted, and toxaphene is now used only for special
needs, mainly in southern states.
The list of trade names given below may help you find but whether you are using
this chemical at home or work.
In 1974, Congress passed the Safe Drinking Water Act.
This law requires EPA to determine safe levels of chemicals
in drinking water which do or may cause health problems.
These non-enforceable levels, based solely on possible
health risks and exposure, are called Maximum Contaminant
Level Goals.
The MCLG for toxaphene has been set at zero because
EPA believes this level of protection would not cause any of
the potential health problems described below.
Based on this MCLG, EPA has set an enforceable standard
called a Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL). MCLs are set
as close to the MCLGs as possible, considering the ability of
public water systems to detect and remove contaminants
using suitable treatment technologies.
The MCL has been set at 3 parts per billion (ppb) because
EPA believes, given present technology and resources, this
is the lowest level to which water systems can reasonably be
required to remove this contaminant should it occur in drink-
ing water.
These drinking water standards and the regulations for
ensuring these standards are met, are called National Pri-
mary Drinking Water Regulations. AH public water supplies
must abide by these regulations.
Short-term: EPA has found toxaphene to potentially cause
the following health effects when people are exposed to it at
TRADE NAMES AND
SYNONYMS:
CHLORINATED CAMPHENE
OCTACHLOROCAMPHENE
CAMPHOCHLO'R
AGRICIDE MAGGOT
KILLER '
ALLTEX
CRESTOXO
COMPOUND 3956
ESTONOX
FASCO-TERPENE
GENIRHENE
HERCULES 3956
M5055
MEUPAX
MOTOX
PENPHENE
PHENACIDE
PHENATOX
STROBANE-T
TOXADUST
TOXAKIL
VERTAC 90%
TOXON 63"
ATTAC
ANATOX
ROYAL BRAND BEAN
Tox82
COTTON Tox MP82
SECURITY Tox-SoL-6
SECURITY Tox-MP
COTTON SPRAY
SECURITY MOTOX 63
COTTON SPRAY
AGRO-CHEM BRAND
TORBIDAN28
DRRoGER'sTOXENE
October 1995
Consumer Version
Printed on Recycled Paper
-------
levels above the MCL for relatively short periods of time: central nervous system
effects including restlessness, hyperexcitability, tremors, spasms or convulsions.
Long-term: Toxaphene has the potential to cause the following effects from a
lifetime exposure at levels above the MCL: liver and kidney degeneration; central
nervous system effects; possible immune system suppression; cancer.
How MUCH TOXAPHENE
IS PRODUCED AND
RELEASED TO THE
ENVIRONMENT?
Production of toxaphene in 1977 was nearly 40 million pounds. By 1982, when
EPA cancelled most of its uses, consumption was reported at 12 million pounds.
Toxaphene is released into the environment primarily,from its application as an
insecticide for the protection of cotton, mostly in southern states.
Toxaphene is very persistent, remaining in soil for up to 14 years. It is not
expected to leach to groundwater. It will hot break down by microbial or other
means. Though it strongly binds to soils and the sediments of water bodies, it may
gradually evaporate to the air where it is slowly broken down by sunlight.
Toxaphene has a high potential to accumulate in aquatic life.
The regulation for toxaphene became effective in 1992. Between 1993 and
1995, EPA required your water supplier to collect water samples every 3 months
for one year and analyze them to find out if toxaphene is present above 1 ppb. If
it is present above this level, the system must continue to monitor this contami-
nant.
If contaminant levels are found to be consistently above the MCL, your water
supplier must take steps to reduce the amount of toxaphene so that it is
consistently below that level. The following treatment methods have been
approved by EPA for removing toxaphene: Granular activated charcoal.
If the levels of toxaphene exceed the MCL, 3 ppb, the system must notify the
public via newspapers, radio, TV and other means. Additional actions, such as
providing alternative drinking water supplies, may be required to prevent serious
risks to public health.
WHAT HAPPENS TO
TOXAPHENE
WHEN IT IS RELEASED TO
THE ENVIRONMENT?
HOW WILL
TOXAPHENE
BE DETECTED IN AND
REMOVED FROM
MY DRINKING WATER?
HOW WILL I KNOW IF
TOXAPHENE is IN MY
DRINKING WATER?
Learn more about your drinking water!
EPA strongly encourages people to learn more Your state Department of Health/Environment is also a
abouttheir drinking water, and to support local efforts valuable source of information.
to protect and upgrade the supply of safe drinking por ne|p jr, locating these agencies or for information on
water. Your water bill or telephone book's govern- drinking water in general, call:
ment listings are a good starting point. EPA's Safe Drinking Water Hotline: (800)426-4791.
Your local water supplier can give you a list of the por additional information on the uses and releases of
chemicals they test for in your water, as well as how chemicals in your state, contact the:
your water is treated. , Community Right-to-Know Hotline: (800) 535-0202.
-------
United States
Environmental Protection
Agency
Office of Water
4601
EPA 811-F-95-003dd-t
October 199B
National Primary Drinking
Water Regulations
2,4,5 - TP (Silvex)
This is a factsheet about a chemical that may be found in some public
or private drinking water supplies. It may cause health problems if
found in amounts greater than the health standard set by the United
States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
WHAT is
2,4,5-TP
AND HOW IS IT USED?
DRINKING WATER
STANDARDS:
MCLG:
MCL:
0.05 PPM
0.05 PPM
2,4,5-TP is a white organic powder with little odor. Its use has been banned
since 1985, The greatest use of 2,4,5-TP was as a postemergence herbicide for
control of woody plants, and broadleaf herbaceous weeds in rice and bluegrass
turf, in sugarcane, in rangeland improvement programs, on lawns. Aquatic uses
included control of weeds in ditches and riverbanks, on fioodways, along canals,
reservoirs, streams, and along southern waterways.
The list of trade names given below may help you find out whether you are using
this chemical at home or work.
WHY is 2,4,5-TP
BEING REGULATED?
WHAT ARE THE
HEALTH EFFECTS?
In 1974, Congress passed the Safe Drinking Water Act. This law requires EPA
to determine safe levels of chemicals in drinking water which do or may cause
health problems. These non-enforceable levels, based solely on possible health
risks and exposure, are called Maximum Contaminant Level Goals.
The MCLG for 2,4,5-TP has been set at 0.05 parts per million (ppm) because
EPA believes this level of protection would not cause any of the potential health
problems described below.
Based on this MCLG, EPA has set an enforceable standard called a Maximum
Contaminant Level (MCL). MCLs are set as close to the MCLGs as possible,
considering the ability of public water systems to detect and remove contaminants
using suitable treatment technologies.
The MCL has been set at 0.05 ppm because EPA believes,
given present technology and resources, this is the lowest level
to which water systems can reasonably be required to remove
this contaminant should it occur in drinking water.
These drinking water standards and the regulations for ensur-
ing these standards are met, are called National Primary Drinking
Water Regulations. All public water supplies must abide by these
regulations.
Short-term: EPA has found 2,4,5-TP to potentially cause the
following health effects when people are exposed to it at levels
above the MCL for relatively short periods of time: depression
and other nervous system effects, weakness, stomach irritation
TRADE NAMES AND
SYNONYMS:
WEED-B-GON
PROPON
SILVI-RHAP
STA-FAST
MILLER Nu SET '
AQUA-VEX
COLOR-SET
DED-WEED
FENOPROP
FENORMONE
FRUITONE T
GARLON
KURAN
KUROSAL G/SL
SILVEX
October 1995
Consumer Version
Printed on Recycled Paper
-------
and minor damage to liver and kidneys.
Long-term: 2,4,5-TP has the potential to cause the following effects from a
lifetime exposure at levels above the MCL: minor liver and kidney damage.
In 1982,2,4,5-TP production was 500,000 pounds. Former releases were from
spraying on rangelands, runoff from fields, and direct release to water for control
of aquatic weeds.
2,4,5-TP will strongly bind to soils and is degraded by microbes, so it isn't likely
to leach to ground water. If released to water, 2,4,5-TP will bind to sediment,
where microbes will slowly degrade it. It has a very low potential for accumulating
in aquatic life.
The regulation for 2,4,5-TP became effective in 1992. Between 1993 and 1995,
EPA required your water supplierto collect water samples every 3 months for one
year and analyze them to find out if 2,4,5-TP is present above 0.2 ppb. If it is
present above this level, the system must continue to monitor this contaminant.
If contaminant levels are found to be consistently above the MCL, your water
supplier must take steps to reduce the amount of 2,4,5-TP so that it is consistently
below that level. The following treatment methods have been approved by EPA
for removing 2,4,5-TP: Granular activated charcoal.
How MUCH 2,4,5-TP
IS PRODUCED AND
RELEASED TO THE
ENVIRONMENT?
WHAT HAPPENS TO
2,4,5-TP
WHEN IT IS RELEASED TO(
THE ENVIRONMENT?
HOW WILL
2,4,5-TP
BE DETECTED IN AND
REMOVED FROM
MYDRINKING WATER?
If the levels of 2,4,5-TP exceed the MCL, 0.05 ppm, the system must notify the
public via newspapers, radio, TV and other means. Additional actions, such as
providing alternative drinking water supplies, may be required to prevent serious
risks to public health.
HOW WILL I KNOW IF
2,4,5-TP IS IN MY
DRINKING WATER?
Learn more about your drinking water!
EPA strongly encourages people to learn more
about their drinking water, and to support local efforts
to protect and upgrade the supply of safe drinking
wate'r. Your water bill or telephone book's govern-
ment listings are a good starting point.
Your local water supplier can give you a list of the
chemicals they test for in your water, as well as how
your water is treated.
Your state Department of Health/Environment is also a
valuable source of information.
For help in locating these agencies or for information on
drinking water in general, call:
EPA's Safe Drinking Water Hotline: (800) 426-4791.
For additional information on the uses and releases of
chemicals in your state, contact the:
Community Right-to-Know Hotline: (800) 535-0202.
October 1995
Consumer Version
Page 2
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