Chloroform
Bromodichloromethane
Bromoform
Dibromochloromethane
Mandatory Health Effects Language
This document contains official and semi-official Mandatory Health Effects Language (MHEL) from the NYSDOH and DCHD for use in notices. Other official boiler plate is included in some sections. Modify to suit.
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Call NYSDOH for Mandatory Health Effects Language not listed here. Add new language to this document.
Some items from Subpart Q Appendix B of Part 141 -- Standard Health Effects Language for Public Notification.
Some radionuclide language is taken from the Proposed EPA Radionuclides Rule; MCL's listed in the proposed health effects language may not be the final MCL's.
Public notices should follow the format outlined in 5-1.78 Public Notification.
EHM item PWS 71 contains further guidance.
See also NOTICE.DOT, a template for creating public notices.
Using Find from the Edit menu of your browser may be faster than using Page Down.
See also FEDERAL LANGUAGE from 40CFR141 at the Government Printing Office's electronic CFR: Look in Appendix B to Subpart Q.
Quick health advisory level chart from USEPA Drinking Water Health Advisories.
Example of Typical Advice on Non-Ingestion Pathways
Some people may wish to take practical measures which will further reduce their exposure. Individuals could use bottled water for drinking and cooking purposes. Since the chemicals tend to evaporate into the air, increasing ventilation during bathing and showering, as well as reducing the duration of bathing and showering, will help reduce exposure from breathing the vapors and through skin contact.
Thomas Johnson, NYSDOH BTSA 2007-01-18
Inorganic (18)
Antimony
Asbestos
Barium
Cadmium
Chromium
Chloride
Fluoride
Iron
Lead
Manganese
Mercury
Nitrate
Nitrite
Perchlorate
Selenium
Strontium
Sulfate
Thallium
Disinfectants and Disinfection Byproducts (8)
Chlorine
Chloramines
Chlorine Dioxide
Disinfection Byproducts and Treatment Techniques for DBPs
Bromate
Chlorite
Haloacetic Acids (HAA)
Total Trihalomethanes
Organic Contaminants (61)
Acrylamide
Alachlor
Aldicarb
Aldicarb sulfone
Aldicarb sulfoxide
Atrazine
Benzene
Bromochloromethane
Bromomethane
Butyl Alcohol
Carbofuran
Carbon tetrachloride
Chlordane
Chloroethane
Chloromethane
Cumene
2,4-D
Dacthal and
Tetrachloroterephthalic Acid
Dibromochloropropane
Di isopropyl ether, see Butyl Alcohol
1,2-Dichlorobenzene
1,4-Dichlorobenzene
Dichlorodifluoromethane (Freon
12)
1,1-Dichloroethane
1,2-Dichloroethane
1,1-Dichloroethene
Cis-1,2-Dichloroethene
Trans-1,2-Dichloroethene
Dichloromethane
1,2-Dichloropropane
Epichlorohydrin
Ethylbenzene
Ethylene Dibromide
Heptachlor
Heptachlor Epoxide
Hexachlorobenzene
Hexachlorobutadiene
Hexachlorocyclopentadiene
Lindane
Methoxychlor
Monochlorobenzene
MTBE
Pentachlorophenol
Polychlorinated Biphenyls
(PCBs)
Styrene
Tertiary Butyl Alcohol (TBA), see Butyl Alcohol
1,2,3,4-Tetrachlorobenzene
1,2,4,5-Tetrachlorobenzene
Tetrachloroethene
Toluene
Toxaphene
2,4,5-TP
1,2,3-Trichlorobenzene
1,2,4-Trichlorobenzene
1,3,5-Trichlorobenzene
1,1,1-Trichloroethane
Trichloroethene
Trichlorofluoromethane (Freon 11)
2,4,5-Trichlorophenol
1,1,2-Trichloro-1,2,2-Trifluoroethane (Freon 113)
Trihalomethanes
Vinyl Chloride
Xylene
Turbidity (2)
Turbidity
Surface Water Treatment Rule Treatment Technique Violation
Microbiological (3)
Total Coliform
E. Coli
Cryptosporidium: Advisory for the
Immunocompromised
Radionuclides (5)
Gross Alpha aka Alpha Emitters
Beta and photon emitters
Radium Combined
Uranium
Radon (Proposed)
Miscellaneous (2)
Potassium Permanganate (Draft)
Surface Water Treatment Rule
Antimony is a silver-white metal that occurs in nature in many different compounds. Antimony is used in the flame-retardant industry, and in ceramics, glass, batteries, fireworks and explosives. Antimony may get into drinking water through the natural weathering of rock and through mining and processing, and waste disposal of antimony ores and antimony metal.
Exposure to high levels of antimony damages the heart, lungs, gastrointestinal tract, liver and blood of humans and laboratory animals. Studies in industrial workers who were exposed to high air levels of antimony compounds over long periods of time reported gastrointestinal disturbances such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, vomiting, ulcers, altered electrocardiogram (heart) readings and increased blood pressure. Breathing antimony causes lung cancer in laboratory animals. Whether eating antimony causes cancer in humans or laboratory animals is unknown. Chemicals that cause adverse health effects in human and laboratory animals after high levels of exposure may pose a risk of adverse health effects in humans exposed to lower levels over long periods of time.
NYSDOH BTSA 12/1998
Asbestos is a common name for a group of naturally occurring minerals that separate into fibers. Six fibrous minerals are generally recognized as asbestos, including the most common forms - chrysotile and crocidolite. Asbestos has been used as insulating and fire retarding materials and in the production of cement, floor tiles, paint and brake linings. Asbestos fibers generally get into drinking water from naturally contaminated surface water or from the corrosion of asbestos-cement pipes.
Inhaled asbestos fibers cause lung cancer in humans and in laboratory animals exposed to high levels in air over their lifetimes. The evidence that ingested asbestos causes cancer in animals is weak and comes from one study where chrysotile fibers caused benign (non-cancerous) tumors in male laboratory rats exposed to high levels in their food during their lifetimes. Chemicals that cause cancer in humans and laboratory animals may increase the risk of cancer in humans exposed to lower levels over long periods of time. Whether ingested asbestos causes cancer in humans is unknown.
NYSDOH BTSA 12/93
Barium is a silvery-white metal that occurs in nature in many different compounds. It is also found naturally in drinking water and food. It is used in oil and gas drilling muds and in the production of paints, bricks, tiles, ceramics and as an additive for jet fuels. Barium generally gets into drinking water after dissolving from naturally occurring minerals in the ground or after improper waste disposal. There is some evidence that exposure to high levels of barium damages the heart and causes high-blood pressure in humans and laboratory animals.
NYSDOH BTSA 12/93
Cadmium is a silvery-white metal that occurs in nature in many different compounds. It is also found naturally in food and in tobacco smoke. It has many uses in industry and consumer products, mainly in the production of batteries, pigments, plastics and metal coatings (galvanized pipes, for example). Cadmium generally gets into drinking water after improper waste disposal.
Some people exposed to large amounts of cadmium suffered kidney, bone and blood damage. Exposure to high levels of cadmium damages the kidneys, blood, liver, heart and the immune and nervous systems of laboratory animals. High exposure also damages the unborn offspring of laboratory animals exposed during pregnancy. Chemicals that cause adverse health effects in humans and laboratory animals after high levels of exposure pose a risk of adverse health effects in humans exposed to lower levels over long periods of time.
NYSDOH BTSA 12/93
The presence of chloride ions in drinking water above the maximum contaminant level of 250 mg/l can result in two undesirable aesthetic effects. First, the water consumer may detect an objectionable taste to the water. Second, corrosion of the pipes in hot water systems may occur. Consumers may become accustomed to the taste of somewhat higher chloride levels, but the economic effects of these higher levels ought to be avoided. High levels of sodium are associated with chloride contamination. Persons on restricted sodium diets should consult their physician.
Chloride cannot be readily removed from drinking water without the use of distillation, reverse osmosis or electrodialysis which are effective but relatively expensive; thus, the use of an alternative source, such as bottled water or blending, is the most desirable approach.
DCHD 3/97
Chromium is a steel-gray metal that occurs in nature in many different compounds. It is used for electroplating, in the manufacture of steel and in the textile, tanning and leather industries. Chromium generally gets into drinking water in runoff from old mining operations and after improper waste disposal from plating operations.
Some industrial workers exposed to large amounts of chromium suffered liver, kidney, and skin damage. Exposure to high levels of chromium damages the kidneys, liver, nervous and reproductive systems of laboratory animals and the unborn offspring of laboratory animals exposed during pregnancy.
NYSDOH BTSA 12/93
Fluorides are naturally occurring or man-made chemicals which are found in food, water, soil and air. Fluorides are used in a variety of dental products such as toothpastes, mouth rinses and fluoride supplements. In some municipalities, fluoride is added to drinking water to protect against tooth decay. Other fluoride compounds are used in numerous commercial products (e.g., cements, pesticides, ceramics) and industrial processes.
Ingestion of moderate amounts of fluoride typically found in foods and fluoridated water has been shown to protect against tooth decay without causing adverse health effects. However, some children who drink water with fluoride levels greater than about 2.0 mg/l may develop dental fluorosis, which, in its moderate and severe forms, is a brown staining and/or pitting of permanent teeth. Drinking water that contains levels above 4.0 mg/l for many years may result in some cases of crippling skeletal fluorosis, which is a serious bone disorder. Symptoms of fluoride poisoning from short-term exposure to high concentrations of fluoride include gastrointestinal effects, kidney and liver damage, convulsions, respiratory arrest, coma and death.
NYSDOH BTSA 3/91
Iron is not considered hazardous to health. In fact, iron is essential for good health because it transports oxygen in your blood. Iron is considered a secondary or "aesthetic" contaminant. The present recommended limit for iron in water, 0.3 mg/l (ppm), is based on taste and appearance rather than on any detrimental health effect. When the level of iron in water exceeds the 0.3 mg/l limit, we experience red, brown, or yellow staining of laundry, glassware, dishes and household fixtures such as bathtubs and sinks. The water may also have a metallic taste and an offensive odor. Water system piping and fixtures can also become restricted or clogged.
DCHD 2005-04-14 MK
Manganese is a natural component of the environment and we are exposed to low levels in water, soil and food. Too much manganese, however, can cause adverse health effects. Manganese miners or steel workers exposed to high levels of manganese dust may have mental and emotional disturbances, and their body movements may become slow and clumsy. Whether eating or drinking too much manganese can cause these problems is unknown. In one report1, humans who drank water containing very high levels of manganese (20 mg/l) developed symptoms similar to these seen in manganese miners, but it is not certain whether the effects were caused by manganese alone or other contaminants. In another report2, people who drank water with above average levels of manganese (about 2 mg/l) were reported to have a slightly higher frequency of symptoms such as weakness, stiff muscles and trembling of the hands. However, these symptoms are not specific for manganese and might have been caused by other factors. Although these studies are limited, they suggest that high levels of manganese in drinking water may increase the risk of adverse health effects, particularly after many years of exposure.
Because of the potential for increased health risks from drinking water with high levels of manganese, we recommend that steps be taken to reduce manganese levels in your drinking water. Possible solutions would be to install a water treatment system to remove manganese from the water supply or to use an alternate supply of water for drinking and cooking purposes.
1 Kawamura R, Ikuta H, Fukuzumi S, et al. 1941. Intoxication by manganese in well water. Kisato Arch Exp Med 18:145-171
2 Kondakis XG, Makris N, Leotsinidis M, et al. 1989. Possible health effects of high manganese concentration in drinking water. Arch Environ Health 44:175-178
NYSDOH BTSA
Manganese is a natural component of the environment and we are exposed to low levels in water, soil and food.
The Food and Nutrition Board of the National Research Council determined an estimated safe and adequate daily dietary intake of manganese to be 2 to 5 mg for adults. However, many people's diets lead them to consume even higher amounts of manganese, especially those that consume high amounts of vegetables or are vegetarians. The infant population is of greater concern. It would be better if the drinking water were not used to make infant formula, since it already contains manganese.
Excess manganese produces a brownish color in laundered goods and impairs the taste of tea, coffee, and other beverages. High manganese concentration may cause a brownish or blackish stain on porcelain plumbing fixtures. Manganese may form a coating on distribution pipes. These may slough off, causing brown splotches on laundered clothing or black particles in the water.
The level of exposure to manganese in your drinking water is relatively low and does not constitute an immediate health hazard. However, some people may wish to take practical measures which reduce their exposure. Individuals could use bottled water for drinking and cooking purposes. Installation of a water treatment system to remove manganese would also eliminate staining of plumbing fixtures and laundry.
The level of exposure to manganese in your drinking water is relatively low and does not constitute an immediate health hazard. However, because of concern about the potential for increased health risks from drinking water with high levels of manganese over long periods of time, we recommend that steps be taken to reduce manganese levels in your drinking water. You could use bottled water for drinking and cooking purposes. Installation of water treatment system to remove manganese would reduce exposure as well as staining of plumbing fixtures and laundry.
Because of the potential for increased health risks from drinking water with high levels of manganese over long periods of time, we recommend that steps be taken to reduce manganese levels in your drinking water. Possible solutions to the problem include using bottled water for drinking and cooking or installing a water treatment system to remove the manganese. A water treatment system would also address problems with staining of laundry and fixtures. Also the water should not be used for making infant formula.
6/26/1996
Mercury is a silvery, liquid metal that occurs in nature in many different compounds. Pure mercury is used in thermometers, electrical equipment (including water and sump pumps), lamps and dental amalgams. Mercury compounds have been used in paints and pharmaceutical preparations. Mercury generally gets into drinking water as a result of improper waste disposal.
Some people exposed to large amounts of mercury suffered kidney and nervous system damage. Exposure to high levels of mercury damages the kidneys and nervous system of laboratory animals. Chemicals that cause adverse health effects in humans and laboratory animals after high levels of exposure pose a risk of adverse health effects in humans exposed to lower levels over long periods of time.
NYSDOH BTSA 12/93
Nitrate naturally occurs in a number of foods, particularly vegetables. It is also used as preservatives in meats such as bacon. Nitrate is also used to make lawn, garden and agricultural fertilizers and is found in sewage and wastes from farm animals. It generally gets into drinking water by runoff into surface water or by leaching into groundwater after application or after improper sewage or animal waste disposal.
Infants are particularly sensitive to nitrate. High levels of nitrate in drinking water have caused serious illness and sometimes death in infants under 6 months of age. The serious illness occurs because nitrate is converted to nitrite in the body and nitrite reduces the ability of the infant's blood to carry oxygen. Symptoms of the illness can develop rapidly and include shortness of breath and blueness of the skin (blue baby condition). Exposure to nitrate in drinking water at levels above 10 milligrams per liter (10 mg/l) increases the risk of developing the illness. Because the effects of nitrate and nitrite are additive, water containing more than 10 mg/l of total nitrate/nitrite should not be used to prepare infant formula.
NYSDOH BTSA 12/93
Nitrite naturally occurs in a number of foods, particularly vegetables. It is also used as preservatives in meats such as bacon. Nitrite is also used to make lawn, garden and agricultural fertilizers and is found in sewage and wastes from farm animals. Nitrite generally gets into drinking water by runoff into surface water or by leaching into groundwater after application or after improper sewage or animal waste disposal. Nitrite is also formed in the body when people ingest food or water containing nitrate.
Infants are particularly sensitive to nitrite. Although high levels of nitrite in drinking water are rarely observed, high levels of nitrate in drinking water (another source of nitrite) have caused serious illness and sometimes death in infants under 6 months of age. The serious illness occurs because nitrate is converted to nitrite in the body and nitrite reduces the ability of the infant's blood to carry oxygen. Symptoms of the illness can develop rapidly and include shortness of breath and blueness of the skin (blue baby condition). Exposure to nitrite in drinking water at levels above 1 milligram per liter (1 mg/l) increases the risk of developing the illness. Because the effects of nitrate and nitrite are additive, water containing more than 10 mg/l of total nitrate/nitrite should not be used to prepare infant formula.
NYSDOH BTSA 12/93
Perchlorates are a family of inorganic compounds or salts that include compounds such as ammonium perchlorate, potassium perchlorate, and sodium perchlorate. About 90% of the ammonium perchlorate that is manufactured is used in rocket fuel. Some is also used in fireworks and military explosives. Perchlorate salts are found in fertilizer mined in Chile. Perchlorate is obtained when perchlorate compounds dissolve in water. Drinking water may become contaminated when perchlorate compounds are carried into surface water with runoff or leach into groundwater after crop application or improper waste disposal.
The thyroid gland produces hormones that are essential for normal metabolism, growth, and development. High oral doses of perchlorate reduce the production of thyroid hormones. Potassium perchlorate has been used, until recently, as a medicine to reduce abnormally high thyroid hormone levels to normal levels in people with overactive thyroid glands. Thus, most of the data on the human health effects of perchlorate comes from people who took perchlorate to reduce or eliminate the symptoms caused by high levels of thyroid hormones. A small percentage of these people had adverse side-effects, which ranged from minor effects (rashes, fever, swollen lymph glands, or nausea) to more serious effects on the blood and immune systems. In addition, high doses of perchlorate exposure may cause adverse effects in healthy people by reducing the level of thyroid hormones to below normal levels. High doses of perchlorate affect the thyroid gland of animals; short-term exposure (4 days to 4 weeks) reduced thyroid-gland hormone levels in rats and lifelong exposure to very high levels caused benign thyroid tumors in rats. Whether perchlorate causes cancer in humans is unknown. Chemicals that cause adverse health effects in humans and laboratory animals after high levels of exposure pose a risk of adverse health effects in humans exposed to lower levels over long periods of time.
NYSDOH BTSA 1998-11-20
Selenium is a metal, usually gray, that occurs in nature in many different compounds. It is used in the manufacture of glass, rubber, paint and electrical equipment. Selenium generally gets into drinking water after dissolving from naturally occurring minerals in the ground or after improper waste disposal.
Selenium is an essential nutrient at low levels of exposure. Some people exposed to large amounts of selenium suffered skin, teeth, nail and nervous system damage. Exposure to high levels of selenium damages the liver and reproductive system of laboratory animals and the unborn offspring of laboratory animals exposed during pregnancy.
NYSDOH BTSA 12/93
NYSDOH has set a guideline of 20,000 ppb.
The above number is arbitrary and was communicated to DCHD in 1988.
See D. Ruff's 8/26/1988 memo to Engineering Staff
Strontium is a silvery metal that rapidly turns yellowish in air. Strontium is found naturally as a non-radioactive element. Strontium is naturally occurring in rocks, soil, dust, coal, and oil. Strontium compounds are used in making ceramics and glass products, pyrotechnics, paint pigments, fluorescent lights, and medicines. Exposure to stable or radioactive strontium occurs from ingesting contaminated food or drinking water or breathing contaminated air. In children, high levels of stable strontium can impair bone growth. Strontium-90 is the most important radioactive isotope in the environment, although strontium-89 can be found around reactors, and strontium-85 is used in industry and medicine. High levels of radioactive strontium can cause anemia or cancer.
EPA and ATSDR, 2010-09-13
Sulfate is a substance that occurs naturally in drinking water. Health concerns regarding sulfate in drinking water have been raised because of reports that diarrhea may be associated with the ingestion of water containing high levels of sulfate. Of particular concern are groups within the general population that may be at greater risk from the laxative effects of sulfate when they experience an abrupt change from drinking water with low sulfate concentrations to drinking water with high sulfate concentrations.
http://www.epa.gov/safewater/sulfate.html 26-Jul-2001
Thallium is a bluish-white metal found in the ores of copper, zinc and lead. It is used in the manufacture of electronic equipment, drugs, glass and metal alloys. Contamination of drinking water may occur if thallium gets into surface water or groundwater after dissolving from minerals in the ground or after improper waste disposal.
Some workers exposed to large amounts of thallium suffered hair loss and nervous system damage. Exposure to high levels of thallium causes hair loss and damages the nervous system and testes of laboratory animals. Chemicals that cause adverse health effects in workers and laboratory animals after high levels of exposure pose a risk of adverse health effects in humans exposed to lower levels over long periods of time.
NYSDOH BTSA 11/1996
The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) sets drinking water standards and has determined that chlorine is a health concern at certain levels of exposure. Chlorine is added to drinking water as a disinfectant to kill bacteria and other disease-causing microorganisms and is also added to provide continuous disinfection throughout the distribution system. Disinfection is required for surface water systems. However, at high doses for extended periods of time, chlorine has been shown to affect blood and the liver in laboratory animals. EPA has set a drinking water standard for chlorine to protect against the risk of these adverse effects. Drinking water which meets this EPA standard is associated with little to none of this risk and should be considered safe with respect to chlorine.
From 12/16/98 Federal Register 40 CFR Parts 9, 141 and 142 National Primary Drinking Water Regulations: Disinfectants and Disinfection Byproducts; Final Rule
The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) sets drinking water standards and has determined that chloramines are a health concern at certain levels of exposure. Chloramines are added to drinking water as a disinfectant to kill bacteria and other disease-causing microorganisms and are also added to provide continuous disinfection throughout the distribution system. Disinfection is required for surface water systems. However, at high doses for extended periods of time, chloramines have been shown to affect blood and the liver in laboratory animals. EPA has set a drinking water standard for chloramines to protect against the risk of these adverse effects. Drinking water which meets this EPA standard is associated with little to none of this risk and should be considered safe with respect to chloramines.
From 12/16/98 Federal Register 40 CFR Parts 9, 141 and 142 National Primary Drinking Water Regulations: Disinfectants and Disinfection Byproducts; Final Rule
See also More on Chloramines for current SDWA language.
The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) sets drinking water standards and has determined that chlorine dioxide is a health concern at certain levels of exposure. Chlorine dioxide is used in water treatment to kill bacteria and other disease-causing microorganisms and can be used to control tastes and odors. Disinfection is required for surface water systems. However, at high doses, chlorine dioxide-treated drinking water has been shown to affect blood in laboratory animals. Also, high levels of chlorine dioxide given to laboratory animals in drinking water have been shown to cause neurological effects on the developing nervous system. These neurodevelopmental effects may occur as a result of a short-term excessive chlorine dioxide exposure. To protect against such potentially harmful exposures, EPA requires chlorine dioxide monitoring at the treatment plant, where disinfection occurs, and at representative points in the distribution system serving water users. EPA has set a drinking water standard for chlorine dioxide to protect against the risk of these adverse effects.
Note: In addition to the language in this introductory text of paragraph (e)(78), systems must include either the language in paragraph (e)(78)(i) or (e)(78)(ii) of this section. Systems with a violation at the treatment plant, but not in the distribution system, are required to use the language in paragraph (e)(78)(i) of this section and treat the violation as a nonacute violation. Systems with a violation in the distribution system are required to use the language in paragraph (e)(78)(ii) of this section and treat the violation as an acute violation.
(i) The chlorine dioxide violations reported today are the result of exceedances at the treatment facility only, and do not include violations within the distribution system serving users of this water supply. Continued compliance with chlorine dioxide levels within the distribution system minimizes the potential risk of these violations to present consumers.
(ii) The chlorine dioxide violations reported today include exceedances of the EPA standard within the distribution system serving water users. Violations of the chlorine dioxide standard within the distribution system may harm human health based on short-term exposures. Certain groups, including pregnant women, infants, and young children, may be especially susceptible to adverse effects of excessive exposure to chlorine dioxide-treated water. The purpose of this notice is to advise that such persons should consider reducing their risk of adverse effects from these chlorine dioxide violations by seeking alternate sources of water for human consumption until such exceedances are rectified. Local and State health authorities are the best sources for information concerning alternate drinking water.
From 12/16/98 Federal Register 40 CFR Parts 9, 141 and 142 National Primary Drinking Water Regulations: Disinfectants and Disinfection Byproducts; Final Rule
The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) sets drinking water standards and requires the disinfection of drinking water. However, when used in the treatment of drinking water, disinfectants react with naturally-occurring organic and inorganic matter present in water to form chemicals called disinfection byproducts (DBPs). EPA has determined that a number of DBPs are a health concern at certain levels of exposure. Certain DBPs, including some trihalomethanes (THMs) and some haloacetic acids (HAAs), have been shown to cause cancer in laboratory animals. Other DBPs have been shown to affect the liver and the nervous system, and cause reproductive or developmental effects in laboratory animals. Exposure to certain DBPs may produce similar effects in people. EPA has set standards to limit exposure to THMs, HAAs, and other DBPs.
From 12/16/98 Federal Register 40 CFR Parts 9, 141 and 142 National Primary Drinking Water Regulations: Disinfectants and Disinfection Byproducts; Final Rule
The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) sets drinking water standards and has determined that bromate is a health concern at certain levels of exposure. Bromate is formed as a byproduct of ozone disinfection of drinking water. Ozone reacts with naturally occurring bromide in the water to form bromate. Bromate has been shown to produce cancer in rats. EPA has set a drinking water standard to limit exposure to bromate.
From 12/16/98 Federal Register 40 CFR Parts 9, 141 and 142 National Primary Drinking Water Regulations: Disinfectants and Disinfection Byproducts; Final Rule
The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) sets drinking water standards and has determined that chlorite is a health concern at certain levels of exposure. Chlorite is formed from the breakdown of chlorine dioxide, a drinking water disinfectant. Chlorite in drinking water has been shown to affect blood and the developing nervous system. EPA has set a drinking water standard for chlorite to protect against these effects. Drinking water which meets this standard is associated with little to none of these risks and should be considered safe with respect to chlorite.
From 12/16/98 Federal Register 40 CFR Parts 9, 141 and 142 National Primary Drinking Water Regulations: Disinfectants and Disinfection Byproducts; Final Rule
Haloacetic acids are a group of chemicals that includes mono-, di- and trichloroacetic acids and mono- and dibromoacetic acids. Haloacetic acids are formed in drinking water during treatment by chlorine, which reacts with certain acids that are in naturally-occurring organic material (e.g., decomposing vegetation such as tree leaves, algae or other aquatic plants) in surface water sources such as rivers and lakes. The amount of haloacetic acids in drinking water can change from day to day, depending on the temperature, the amount of organic material in the water, the amount of chlorine added, and a variety of other factors. Drinking water is disinfected by public water suppliers to kill bacteria and viruses that could cause serious illnesses. Chlorine is the most commonly used disinfectant in New York State. For this reason, disinfection of drinking water by chlorination is beneficial to public health.
Some studies of people who drank chlorinated drinking water for 20 to 30 years show that long term exposure to disinfection by-products (possibly including haloacetic acids) is associated with an increased risk for certain types of cancer. However, how long and how frequently people actually drank the water as well as how much haloacetic acids the water contained is not known for certain. Therefore, we do not know for sure if the observed increased risk for cancer is due to haloacetic acids, other disinfection by-products, or some other factor. The individual haloacetic acids dichloroacetic acid and trichloroacetic acid cause cancer in laboratory animals exposed to high levels over their lifetimes. Dichloroacetic acid and trichloroacetic acid are also known to cause other effects in laboratory animals after high levels of exposure, primarily on the liver, kidney and nervous system and on their ability to bear healthy offspring. Chemicals that cause effects in animals after high levels of exposure may pose a risk to humans exposed to similar or lower levels over long periods of time.
Thomas Johnson, NYSDOH BTSA 2003-10-27
Trihalomethanes are a group of chemicals that includes chloroform, bromoform, bromodichloromethane, and chlorodibromomethane. Trihalomethanes are formed in drinking water during treatment by chlorine, which reacts with certain acids that are in naturally-occurring organic material (e.g., decomposing vegetation such as tree leaves, algae or other aquatic plants) in surface water sources such as rivers and lakes. The amount of trihalomethanes in drinking water can change from day to day, depending on the temperature, the amount of organic material in the water, the amount of chlorine added, and a variety of other factors. Drinking water is disinfected by public water suppliers to kill bacteria and viruses that could cause serious illnesses. Chlorine is the most commonly used disinfectant in New York State. For this reason, disinfection of drinking water by chlorination is beneficial to public health.
Some studies suggest that people who drink chlorinated water (which contains trihalomethanes) or water containing elevated levels of trihalomethanes for long periods of time may have an increased risk for certain health effects. For example, some studies of people who drank chlorinated drinking water for 20 to 30 years show that long term exposure to disinfection by-products (including trihalomethanes) is associated with an increased risk for certain types of cancer. A few studies of women who drank water containing trihalomethanes during pregnancy show an association between exposure to elevated levels of trihalomethanes and small increased risks for low birth weights, miscarriages and birth defects. However, in each of the studies, how long and how frequently people actually drank the water, as well as how much trihalomethanes the water contained is not known for certain. Therefore, we do not know for sure if the observed increases in risk for cancer and other health effects are due to trihalomethanes or some other factor. The individual trihalomethanes chloroform, bromodichloromethane and dibromochloromethane cause cancer in laboratory animals exposed to high levels over their lifetimes. Chloroform, bromodichloromethane and dibromochloromethane are also known to cause effects in laboratory animals after high levels of exposure, primarily on the liver, kidney, nervous system and on their ability to bear healthy offspring. Chemicals that cause adverse health effects in laboratory animals after high levels of exposure may pose a risk for adverse health effects in humans exposed to lower levels over long periods of time.
Thomas Johnson, NYSDOH BTSA 2003-10-27
General non-ingestion preventative measures
Acrylamide is a white, man-made solid used in the manufacture of polyacrylamide, a gel-like chemical used in the manufacture of many products including paper, adhesives, thickening agents, photographic chemicals and dyes. Polyacrylamide products are also added to drinking water supplies to remove unwanted particles. Acrylamide may get into drinking water if small amounts of it remain in these products.
Acrylamide causes cancer in laboratory animals exposed to high levels over their lifetimes. Chemicals that cause cancer in laboratory animals may increase the risk of cancer in humans exposed to lower levels over long periods of time. Whether acrylamide causes cancer in humans is unknown. Some people exposed to large amounts of acrylamide in the workplace suffered nervous system damage. Exposure to high levels of acrylamide damages the nervous and reproductive systems of laboratory animals.
NYSDOH BTSA 12/93
Alachlor is a white, man-made pesticide widely used to control weeds and grasses among corn, soybeans, peanuts and other crops. It generally gets into drinking water by runoff into surface water or by leaching into groundwater after crop application or improper waste disposal.
Alachlor causes cancer in laboratory animals exposed to high levels over their lifetimes. Chemicals that cause cancer in laboratory animals may increase the risk of cancer in humans exposed to lower levels over long periods of time. Whether alachlor causes cancer in humans is unknown. Exposure to high levels of alachlor damages the eyes, liver, kidneys, blood and spleen of laboratory animals.
NYSDOH BTSA 12/93
Aldicarb is a white, man-made pesticide widely used to control insects and other pests on potatoes, citrus, cotton, peanuts and other crops. In New York State, use of aldicarb is severely restricted and it can only be used to treat pests on commercial ornamental plants and potatoes (except on Long Island). It generally gets into drinking water by runoff into surface water or by leaching into groundwater after crop application.
Exposure to high levels of aldicarb damages the nervous system of humans and laboratory animals. Chemicals that cause adverse health effects in humans and laboratory animals after high levels of exposure may pose a risk of adverse health effects in humans exposed to lower levels over long periods of time.
NYSDOH BTSA 12/93
Aldicarb sulfone is a breakdown product of aldicarb, a man-made pesticide. In New York State, use of aldicarb is severely restricted and it can only be used to treat pests on commercial ornamental plants and potatoes (except on Long Island). It generally gets into drinking water by runoff into surface water or by leaching into groundwater after crop application.
Exposure to high levels of aldicarb sulfone damages the nervous system of humans and laboratory animals. Chemicals that cause adverse health effects in humans and laboratory animals after high levels of exposure may pose a risk of adverse health effects in humans exposed to lower levels over long periods of time.
NYSDOH BTSA 12/93
Aldicarb sulfoxide is a breakdown product of aldicarb, a man-made pesticide. In New York State, use of aldicarb is severely restricted and it can only be used to treat pests on commercial ornamental plants and potatoes (except on Long Island). It generally gets into drinking water by runoff into surface water or by leaching into groundwater after crop application.
Exposure to high levels of aldicarb sulfoxide damages the nervous system of humans and laboratory animals. Chemicals that cause adverse health effects in humans and laboratory animals after high levels of exposure may pose a risk of adverse health effects in humans exposed to lower levels over long periods of time.
NYSDOH BTSA 12/93
Atrazine is a white, man-made pesticide widely used to control weeds among corn, sorghum, pineapple, citrus and other crops. It is also used for weed control on industrial and non-agricultural land. Atrazine generally gets into drinking water by runoff into surface water or by leaching into groundwater after crop application or improper waste disposal.
Atrazine causes cancer in laboratory animals exposed to high levels over their lifetimes. Chemicals that cause cancer in laboratory animals may increase the risk of cancer in humans exposed to lower levels over long periods of time. Whether atrazine causes cancer in humans is unknown. Exposure to high levels of atrazine damages the heart, liver and kidneys of laboratory animals and reduces the weight of offspring born to animals exposed before, during and after pregnancy.
NYSDOH BTSA 12/93
Benzene is a naturally occurring substance and a major industrial chemical made from coal and oil. As a pure chemical, benzene is a colorless liquid. It is used as a solvent and in the manufacture of other chemicals. Benzene is also found in petroleum products such as gasoline. It generally gets into drinking water from gasoline or fuel oil spills, leaking storage tanks or by improper waste disposal.
Benzene has been associated with an increased risk of leukemia in industrial workers who breathed large amounts of the chemical over a long time in workplace air. Benzene has also caused cancer in laboratory animals exposed at high levels over their lifetimes. Chemicals that cause cancer among exposed industrial workers and laboratory animals are believed to increase the risk of cancer in humans exposed to lower levels over long periods of time. Benzene has also been associated with damage to the blood-cell-forming tissues and the immune and nervous system of industrial workers and laboratory animals.
NYSDOH BTSA 3/91
Bromochloromethane (also called chlorobromomethane) is a colorless to pale yellow man-made liquid used as a liquid fire-extinguishing agent, as a grain fumigant, and as an intermediate (building-block) in the production of other chemicals. It generally gets into drinking water after improper disposal of chemical waste.
Information on the toxicity of bromochloromethane in humans and laboratory animals is limited, particularly with respect to the effects of long-term exposure. Exposure to high concentrations of bromochloromethane in air for a short period of time resulted in disorientation, headache, nausea, and irritation of the eyes and throat. Studies on laboratory animals show that exposure to high concentrations of bromochloroethane damages their nervous system, lungs, liver, and kidneys. Chemicals which cause adverse effects in laboratory animals may also pose a risk of adverse health effects in humans who are exposed at lower levels over long periods of time.
NYSDOH BTSA 6/90
Bromomethane (also called methyl bromide) is a colorless gas with very little odor. At very high levels, the gas has a sweet odor. Bromomethane is used mainly as a fumigant to kill insects in crops, soil and buildings. It is also used to manufacture other industrial chemicals. In the past, it was used in some fire extinguishers and as a refrigerant. There is evidence that low levels of bromomethane can occur in drinking water as a result of disinfection but contamination may result from improper use or disposal.
Humans exposed to bromomethane in workplace air have had damage to the lungs, kidney, liver and nervous system. Laboratory animals exposed to high levels of bromomethane showed damage to the nose, lungs, blood, stomach, kidney, liver, heart, nervous system and male reproductive system. Chemicals which cause adverse health effects in exposed industrial workers and laboratory animals may also pose a risk of adverse health effects in humans who are exposed at lower levels over long periods of time.
NYSDOH BTSA 8/91
Butyl alcohols are central nervous system depressants and are 2 to 5 times more acutely toxic than ethanol in the rat. Toxic symptoms are usually more severe and more prolonged than those in ethanol intoxication with equivalent doses. Exposures to vapors result in marked irritation of the eyes, nose and throat, headache, vertigo and drowsiness, central nervous system depression, hypotension, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea (HSDB, 1993). In general tertiary alcohols are more toxic than corresponding normal alcohols (Gosselin et al., 1984). TBA is classified as a moderate ingestion hazard and is a slight skin irritant.
Tertiary alcohols are metabolized slowly and incompletely so their toxic effects are especially persistent. They are partially excreted in the urine as glucuronides. Liver damage was believed to be the cause in late deaths after single doses of various butanols, including tert-butyl in rats (Gosselin et al., 1984). No entries are listed for TBA in the IRIS or HEAST databases at this time (IRIS, 1993, HEAST, 1992).
NYSDOH BTSA ~1994
Carbofuran is a white, man-made pesticide widely used to control insects and other pests on corn and other crops. It generally gets into drinking water by runoff into surface water or by leaching into groundwater after crop application.
Some people exposed to large amounts of carbofuran in the workplace suffered nervous system damage. Exposure to high levels of carbofuran damages the nervous and reproductive systems of laboratory animals. Chemicals that cause adverse health effects in humans and laboratory animals after high levels of exposure may pose a risk of adverse health effects in humans exposed to lower levels over long periods of time.
NYSDOH BTSA 12/93
Carbon tetrachloride is a clear, man-made liquid. Until the mid-1960's, it was widely used as a household cleaning fluid, in fire extinguishers, as a grain fumigant and as a treatment for hookworm. It is currently used in the manufacture of refrigerants and propellants for aerosol cans. Carbon tetrachloride generally gets into drinking water by improper waste disposal.
Carbon tetrachloride causes cancer in laboratory animals exposed at high levels over their lifetimes. Chemicals that cause cancer in laboratory animals also may increase the risk of cancer in humans exposed to lower levels over long periods of time. Whether or not carbon tetrachloride causes cancer in humans is unknown. Some humans exposed to large amounts of this chemical have had nervous system, liver and kidney damage. Exposure to high concentrations of carbon tetrachloride damages the male reproductive system in laboratory animals.
NYSDOH BTSA 3/1991
Chlordane is a colorless-to-amber, man-made pesticide that was widely used to control agricultural and home/garden pests until most uses were banned in the mid-1970s. In New York State, Chlordane was used for the underground control of termites until that use was banned in 1987. Chlordane generally gets into drinking water after improper waste disposal or when it is injected in soil that is close to a well.
Chlordane causes cancer in laboratory animals exposed to high levels over their lifetimes. Chemicals that cause cancer in laboratory animals may increase the risk of cancer in humans exposed to lower levels over long periods of time. Whether chlordane causes cancer in humans is unknown. Some people exposed to large amounts of chlordane suffered nervous system damage. Exposure to high levels of chlordane damages the nervous system, liver and kidneys of laboratory animals.
NYSDOH BTSA 12/93 (a 1997-08 revision exists)
Chloroethane (also called ethyl chloride) is a colorless, man-made gas. It was once widely used in the production of leaded gasoline but is now used primarily as a foaming agent for plastic products, as a refrigerant, as a solvent, and as a building block in the production of other chemicals, including plastics, dyes and pharmaceuticals.
Some people exposed to large amounts of chloroethane in air had heart, lung, stomach and central nervous system damage. Exposure to large amounts of chloroethane damaged the heart, central nervous system, gastrointestinal tract, liver, kidneys and spleen of laboratory animals. Chloroethane causes cancer in laboratory animals exposed to high levels over their lifetimes. Chemicals that cause cancer in laboratory animals also may increase the risk of cancer in humans exposed to lower levels over long periods of time. Whether or not chloroethane causes cancer in humans is unknown.
NYSDOH BTSA 3/1991
Chloromethane is also known as methyl chloride. It is a clear, colorless gas. It has a faint, sweet, odor that is noticeable only at levels that may be toxic. It is heavier than air, and is extremely flammable. Chloromethane is found in air, surface water, groundwater, soil, and sediment. It is present at very low concentrations throughout the atmosphere. Most of the chloromethane that is released into the environment is from natural sources, such as chemical reactions that occur in the oceans. It is also given off when materials like grass, wood, charcoal, and plastics are burned. It is present in lakes and streams and has been found in drinking water. Other sources of exposure are cigarette smoke, polystyrene insulation, aerosol propellants, and chlorinated swimming pools. There is no evidence that chloromethane causes cancer in people. In animal studies, male mice that breathed contaminated air for 2 years developed tumors in their kidneys, but female mice, and male and female rats did not. There are no known reliable medical tests to determine whether you have been exposed to chloromethane. Symptoms resembling drunkenness and food poisoning, along with a sweet odor of the breath, may suggest to a doctor that a person has been exposed to chloromethane.
DCHD based on ATSDR. April, 2004
Cumene (also called isopropylbenzene) is a colorless liquid that is used to make other chemicals and as a solvent in paints and perfumes. It is also found in gasoline. Cumene generally gets into drinking water from improper waste disposal or leaking gasoline storage tanks.
Exposure to high levels of cumene damages the nervous system, liver and kidneys of laboratory animals. Chemicals that cause adverse health effects in laboratory animals after high levels of exposure may also pose a risk of adverse health effects in humans who are exposed to lower levels over long periods of time.
NYSDOH BTSA 9/92
2,4-D (also called 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid) is a white, man-made pesticide used to control weeds and grasses among agricultural crops (corn, wheat, sorghum, rice) and on rangeland and pastures. It generally gets into drinking water by runoff into surface water or by leaching into groundwater after application or improper waste disposal.
Some industrial workers exposed to large amounts of 2,4-D and other related chemicals suffered nervous system damage. Exposure to high levels of 2,4-D damages the liver, kidneys and blood of laboratory animals. Chemicals that cause adverse health effects in workers and laboratory animals after high levels of exposure pose a risk of adverse health effects in humans exposed to lower levels over long periods of time.
NYSDOH BTSA 12/93
Dacthal (dimethyl-2,3,5,6-tetrachloroterephthalate) is an herbicide used to control weeds in turf, ornamentals and a wide variety of agricultural crops. It is also used to control weeds in residential lawns. Dacthal degrades in the environment to form several chemicals which are soluble in water and can leach into groundwater.
Dacthal causes cancer in laboratory animals exposed to high levels over their lifetimes. Chemicals that cause cancer in laboratory animals may increase the risk of cancer in humans exposed to lower levels over long periods of time. Whether Dacthal causes cancer in humans is unknown. Dacthal damages the liver, kidneys, thyroid gland and lungs of laboratory animals exposed to high levels over their lifetimes.
The chemical formed from the degradation of Dacthal that is most frequently found in groundwater is tetrachloroterephthalic acid. Information on the health effects of tetrachloroterephthalic acid is limited. Tetrachloroterephthalic acid causes changes in the thyroid, adrenal and pituitary glands and in the ovaries of laboratory animals exposed to high levels for 90 days. Long term studies in animals to evaluate the cancer causing potential and other possible long term health effects of tetrachloroterephthalic acid have not been conducted.
The US EPA has not established drinking water standards for Dacthal or tetrachloroterephthalic acid. New York State has a standard of 50 μg/L for Dacthal and tetrachloroterephthalic acid in public water supplies.
NYSDOH BTSA November, 1995
Dibromochloropropane (also called DBCP) is a colorless, man-made gas that was once applied to soil to control pests on agricultural crops and commercial grass. Its use has not been allowed since 1977. Dibromochloropropane generally gets into drinking water by leaching into groundwater after application or improper waste disposal.
Dibromochloropropane damages the genetic material (genes) of animals and bacteria and causes cancer in many organs in mice and rats exposed to high levels over their lifetimes. Based on these data, dibromochloropropane is likely to cause cancer in humans exposed for long periods of time. Some men exposed to large amounts of dibromochloropropane in workplace air suffered reproductive system damage. Exposure to high levels of dibromochloropropane damages the reproductive system, liver, kidneys and adrenal glands of laboratory animals.
NYSDOH BTSA 12/93
1,2-Dichlorobenzene (also called ortho-dichlorobenzene) is a colorless, man-made solid used as an intermediate (building block) in the manufacture of other chemicals such as dyes and herbicides and as a deodorizer of industrial wastewater. It is also found in some engine degreasers and paint removers. 1,2-Dichlorobenzene generally gets into drinking water by leaching into groundwater after improper waste disposal.
Some people exposed to large amounts of 1,2-dichlorobenzene have suffered liver and blood damage. Exposure to high levels of 1,2-dichlorobenzene damages the liver, kidneys and blood of laboratory animals. Chemicals that cause adverse health effects in humans and laboratory animals after high levels of exposure pose a risk of adverse health effects in humans exposed to lower levels over long periods of time.
December 1993
1,4-Dichlorobenzene (also called para-dichlorobenzene) is a colorless solid and a component of mothballs, deodorizers, and some pesticides. It generally gets into drinking water by improper waste disposal.
1,4-Dichlorobenzene causes cancer in laboratory animals exposed at high levels over their lifetimes. Chemicals that cause cancer in laboratory animals also may increase the risk of cancer in humans who are exposed to lower levels over long periods of time. Whether or not 1,4-dichlorobenzene causes cancer in humans is unknown. Some humans exposed to large amounts of this chemical have had nervous system and liver damage. Exposure to high concentrations of 1,4-dichlorobenzene causes damage to the liver, kidneys and nervous system of laboratory animals.
NYSDOH BTSA 3/1991
Dichlorodifluoromethane (Freon 12) is a colorless, man-made gas. It was once widely used as an aerosol propellant but now it is used primarily as a refrigerant and as a foaming agent for plastic products.
Some people exposed to large amounts of dichlorodifluoromethane in workplace air had heart, lung, and central nervous system damage. Exposure to large amounts of dichlorodifluoromethane damaged the heart, liver, central nervous and respiratory systems, and possibly the kidneys of laboratory animals. Chemicals that cause adverse health effects in humans and laboratory animals may also pose a risk to humans who are exposed to lower levels over long periods of time.
October, 1991
1,1 Dichloroethane is a colorless, man-made liquid. It is used primarily to make 1,1,1 trichloroethane and other chemicals, and is found in cleaning agents used to remove paint, varnish, and grease. It is a breakdown product of 1,1,1 trichloroethane.
There is some evidence that 1,1-dichloroethane causes cancer in laboratory animals exposed to high levels over their lifetimes. Chemicals that cause cancer in laboratory animals may also increase the risk of cancer in humans who are exposed to lower levels for long periods of time. Exposure to high levels of 1,1-dichloroethane damages the kidneys of laboratory animals and has caused delayed growth in the offspring of animals exposed during pregnancy.
June, 1990
1,2-Dichloroethane is a clear, man-made liquid. It is used primarily to make vinyl chloride and solvents that remove grease, glue and dirt. This chemical can be found in some household cleaning agents, adhesives, pesticides and paint removers. 1,2-Dichloroethane is also added to leaded gasoline to prevent engine knock. It generally gets into drinking water from improper waste disposal.
1,2-Dichloroethane causes cancer in laboratory animals exposed to high levels over their lifetimes. Chemicals that cause cancer in laboratory animals also may increase the risk of cancer in humans who are exposed to lower levels over long periods of time. Whether or not 1,2-dichloroethane causes cancer in humans is unknown. Some humans exposed to large amounts of this chemical have had nervous system, liver, lung, kidney and heart damage. Exposure to high concentrations of 1,2-dichloroethane causes a decreased ability to fight infection in laboratory animals.
NYSDOH BTSA 3/1991
1,1-Dichloroethene (also called 1,1-dichloroethylene) is a colorless, man-made liquid used to make food packaging, plastic materials, flame-retardant coatings for fabrics, fiber and carpet backing, and piping and coating for steel pipes. 1,1-Dichloroethene also forms in the groundwater when other common environmental contaminants, such as solvents (trichloroethene), break down. The solvents are used as cleaners and degreasers of metals and generally get into drinking water by improper waste disposal.
Humans exposed to high levels of 1,1-dichloroethene have had nervous system and liver damage. 1,1-Dichloroethene damages the liver, kidneys, lungs, heart and nervous system of laboratory animals exposed to high levels. Birth defects have been observed in the offspring of laboratory animals exposed to high levels of this chemical in air during pregnancy. 1,1-Dichloroethene causes cancer in laboratory animals exposed to high levels over their lifetimes. Whether or not it causes cancer in humans is unknown.
NYSDOH BTSA 3/1991
Cis-1,2-dichloroethene (also called cis-1,2-dichloroethylene) is a colorless, man-made liquid used as a solvent and as an intermediate (building block) to make other chemicals. It is also a breakdown product of trichloroethene in the environment. Contamination of drinking water may occur if cis-1,2-dichloroethene or trichloroethene leaches into groundwater after improper waste disposal.
Some people exposed to large amounts of cis-1,2-dichloroethene suffered nervous system damage. Exposure of laboratory animals to high levels of cis-1,2-dichloroethene damages the liver,blood and the nervous system and possibly the immune system. Chemicals that cause adverse health effects in humans and laboratory animals after high levels of exposure pose a risk of adverse health effects in humans exposed to lower levels over long periods of time.
NYSDOH BTSA 2/1999 gmr
Trans-1,2-Dichloroethene (also called trans-1,2-dichloroethylene) is a colorless, man-made liquid used as a solvent and as an intermediate (building block) to make other chemicals. It is also a breakdown product of trichloroethene in the environment. Contamination of drinking water may occur if trans-1,2-dichloroethene or trichloroethene leaches into groundwater after improper waste disposal.
Some people exposed to large amounts of trans-1,2-dichloroethene suffered nervous system damage. Exposure of laboratory animals to high levels of trans-1,2-dichloroethene damages the liver and blood and the nervous and immune systems. Chemicals that cause adverse health effects in humans and laboratory animals after high levels of exposure pose a risk of adverse health effects in humans exposed to lower levels over long periods of time.
NYSDOH BTSA 2/1999 gmr
Dichloromethane (also called methylene chloride) is a colorless, man-made liquid. Its major uses are as an industrial solvent, paint and varnish remover, and in the manufacture of photographic film. It is also a solvent frequently used in chemistry laboratories. People exposed to high levels of dichloromethane in air show effects much like those produced by alcohol. Prolonged exposures may cause changes in blood and liver and decreased responses to visual and auditory stimulation. Most of these effects usually disappear fairly rapidly after exposure stops. Exposure to high concentrations of dichloromethane causes liver and kidney damage and affects the blood of laboratory animals. Dichloromethane causes cancer in laboratory animals exposed to high concentrations over their lifetime. Chemicals that cause cancer in laboratory animals also may increase the risk of cancer in humans who are exposed to lower levels over long periods of time.
NYSDOH BTSA 6/90
1,2-Dichloropropane is a colorless, man-made liquid used as a solvent, a soil fumigant and in the production of other chemicals.
Some people exposed to large amounts of 1,2-dichloropropane have experienced effects on the nervous system, blood and liver. Exposure to high concentrations of 1,2-dichloropropane has also damaged the liver, kidneys and adrenals of laboratory animals. 1,2-Dichloropropane causes cancer in laboratory animals exposed to high levels over their lifetimes. Chemicals that cause cancer in laboratory animals also may increase the risk of cancer in humans who are exposed to lower levels over long periods of time.
NYSDOH BTSA 6/90
Epichlorohydrin is a colorless, man-made liquid used in the manufacture of a wide variety of products, including paper, resins, plastics, cellulose, paints, varnishes and nail enamel. It is also used to make chemicals that are added to drinking water supplies to remove unwanted particles. Epichlorohydrin may get into drinking water if small amounts of it remain in these chemicals.
Epichlorohydrin damages the genetic material (genes) of animals, plants, and bacteria and causes cancer in laboratory rats and mice exposed to high levels over their lifetimes. Based on these data, epichlorohydrin is likely to cause cancer in humans exposed for long periods of time. Some people exposed to large amounts of epichlorohydrin suffered liver and blood-cell damage. Exposure to high levels of epichlorohydrin damages the blood, liver, kidneys and male reproductive system of laboratory animals.
NYSDOH BTSA 12/93
Ethylbenzene is a colorless liquid used as a solvent in the printing and paint industries. It is also used to make other chemicals and is found in gasoline. Ethylbenzene generally gets into drinking water from improper waste disposal or gasoline spills.
People exposed to large amounts of ethylbenzene had nervous system damage. High levels of ethylbenzene damage the nervous system, liver and kidneys of laboratory animals, and the unborn offspring of laboratory animals exposed during pregnancy. Chemicals that cause adverse health effects in humans and laboratory animals after high levels of exposure may also pose a risk of adverse health effects in humans who are exposed to lower levels over long periods of time.
NYSDOH BTSA 9/92
Ethylene dibromide (also called EDB) is a clear, colorless liquid that was once used as an additive to leaded gasoline and as a pesticide to control insects on many fruits, vegetables and grains. Leaded gasoline is no longer available and all major uses of ethylene dibromide as a pesticide were banned in 1983. It generally gets into drinking water by leaching into groundwater after crop application or improper waste disposal.
Ethylene dibromide damages the genetic material (genes) of animals, plants, and bacteria and causes cancer in many organs in mice and rats exposed to high levels over their lifetimes. Based on these data, ethylene dibromide is likely to cause cancer in humans exposed for long periods of time. Some humans exposed to large amounts of ethylene dibromide suffered liver and kidney damage. Exposure to high levels of ethylene dibromide damages the liver, kidneys, adrenal glands and the reproductive system of laboratory animals.
NYSDOH BTSA 12/93
Heptachlor is a white-to-tan, man-made pesticide that was widely used to control agricultural and home/garden pests until most uses were banned in the mid-1970s. In New York State, heptachlor was used for the underground control of termites until that use was banned in 1987. Heptachlor generally gets into drinking water by runoff into surface water or by leaching into groundwater after application or improper waste disposal.
Heptachlor causes cancer in laboratory animals exposed to high levels over their lifetimes. Chemicals that cause cancer in laboratory animals may increase the risk of cancer in humans exposed to lower levels over long periods of time. Whether heptachlor causes cancer in humans is unknown. Exposure to high levels of heptachlor damages the nervous system, liver and kidneys of laboratory animals.
NYSDOH BTSA 12/93
Heptachlor epoxide is a breakdown product of heptachlor, a man-made pesticide that was widely used to control agricultural and home/garden pests until most uses were banned in the mid-1970s. In New York State, heptachlor was used for the underground control of termites until that use was banned in 1987. Heptachlor epoxide can be formed by the breakdown of heptachlor by bacteria in the environment. It is also formed from heptchlor in the body. Heptachlor epoxide generally gets into drinking water by runoff into surface water or by leaching into groundwater after application or improper waste disposal.
Heptachlor epoxide causes cancer in laboratory animals exposed to high levels over their lifetimes. Chemicals that cause cancer in laboratory animals may increase the risk of cancer in humans exposed to lower levels over long periods of time. Whether heptachlor epoxide causes cancer in humans is unknown. Exposure to high levels of heptachlor epoxide damages the nervous system, liver and kidneys of laboratory animals.
NYSDOH BTSA 12/93
Hexachlorobenzene is a man-made, white crystalline solid formed as a by-product during the manufacture of chlorinated solvents and pesticides. It was used as a fungicide and pesticide until it was banned in 1986. There are no current commercial uses of hexachlorobenzene in the United States. Hexachlorobenzene generally gets into drinking water by improper waste disposal.
Hexachlorobenzene causes cancer in laboratory animals exposed at high levels over their lifetimes. Chemicals that cause cancer in laboratory animals also may increase the risk of cancer in humans who are exposed to lower levels over long periods of time. Whether or not hexachlorobenzene causes cancer in humans is unknown. Humans exposed to high levels of hexachlorobenzene have had blood, skin and liver disorders. Exposure to high concentrations of hexachlorobenzene causes liver and kidney damage, birth defects and effects on the skin, nervous system, reproductive system and immune system in laboratory animals.
NYSDOH BTSA 6/92
Hexachlorobutadiene is a colorless, man-made liquid used as a solvent in chlorine gas production, as a hydraulic fluid, as a chemical intermediate (building block) in the manufacture of lubricants and rubber compounds, and as a pesticide. Hexachlorobutadiene generally gets into drinking water from improper waste disposal.
Hexachlorobutadiene damages the kidneys, liver and nervous system of laboratory animals exposed to high levels. Chemicals which cause adverse health effects in laboratory animals may also pose a risk of adverse health effects in humans who are exposed at lower levels over long periods of time. Hexachlorobutadiene causes cancer in laboratory animals exposed to high levels over their lifetimes. Whether or not it causes cancer in humans is unknown.
6/92
Hexachlorocyclopentadiene is a man-made, pale yellow or greenish yellow liquid with a unique, pungent odor. It is used as a chemical intermediate (building block) in the manufacture of chlorinated pesticides, flame-retardants, resins and dyes. It generally gets into drinking water by improper waste disposal.
Some industrial workers exposed to large amounts of hexachlorocyclopentadiene have experienced irritation of the eyes, nose, throat and skin. Hexachlorocyclopentadiene damages the lung, liver, kidney and adrenal glands of laboratory animals exposed to high levels. Chemicals which cause adverse health effects in exposed workers and laboratory animals may also pose a risk of adverse health effects in humans who are exposed at lower levels over long periods of time.
6/92
Lindane (also called gamma hexachlorocyclohexane (HCCH) or benzenehexachloride (BHC)) is a white, man-made pesticide that was once used to control insects and other pests on livestock, fruit, vegetable and forest crops. Most uses of lindane were stopped in the mid-1980s. It is still used to treat people with head and body lice and scabies, a skin disease caused by mites. Lindane generally gets into drinking water by runoff into surface water or by leaching into groundwater after application or improper waste disposal.
Lindane causes cancer in laboratory animals exposed to high levels over their lifetimes. Chemicals that cause cancer in laboratory animals may increase the risk of cancer in humans exposed to lower levels over long periods of time. Whether lindane causes cancer in humans is unknown. Some people exposed to large amounts of lindane suffered nervous system and blood damage. Exposure to high levels of lindane damages the liver and kidneys and the nervous, reproductive and immune systems of laboratory animals.
NYSDOH BTSA 12/93
Methoxychlor is a pale yellow, man-made pesticide used to control insects on livestock and agricultural and forest crops. It generally gets into drinking water by runoff into surface water or by leaching into groundwater after application or improper waste disposal.
Exposure to high levels of methoxychlor damages the reproductive system of laboratory animals and the unborn offspring of laboratory animals exposed during pregnancy. Chemicals that cause adverse health effects in laboratory animals after high levels of exposure pose a risk of adverse health effects in humans exposed to lower levels over long periods of time.
NYSDOH BTSA 12/93
Monochlorobenzene (also called chlorobenzene) is a colorless, man-made liquid used as a solvent in resins, dyes, pesticides and perfumes, a degreasing agent and a chemical intermediate (building block) in the production of other chemicals. Monochlorobenzene generally gets into drinking water by leaching into groundwater after improper waste disposal.
Exposure to high levels of monochlorobenzene damages the liver, kidneys and blood-forming system of laboratory animals. Chemicals that cause adverse health effects in laboratory animals after high levels of exposure pose a risk of adverse health effects in humans exposed to lower levels over long periods of time.
NYSDOH BTSA 12/93
Methyl tertiary butyl ether (MTBE) is a colorless, man-made liquid with a distinctive odor which most people find disagreeable. It is added to gasoline to increase oxygen and boost octane. MTBE can contaminate groundwater after a gasoline spill or from a leaking gasoline storage tank. When gasoline containing MTBE enters groundwater, the MTBE spreads faster than the other gasoline components and is often the first chemical which is detected. For this reason MTBE is considered a good indicator of gasoline contamination in groundwater.
Data on the human health effects of MTBE are available from people whose gallbladders were injected with MTBE to dissolve gallstones, and from people exposed to MTBE while working at gas stations or driving cars fueled with gas containing MTBE. Information on side effects from treatment of gallstones and from studies of laboratory animals indicates that MTBE is not highly toxic following short-term exposure. Some persons who breathed MTBE from gasoline exposure have complained of headaches, nausea, dizziness, irritation of the eye, nose and throat, and feelings of spaciness or confusion. Studies with laboratory animals show that exposure to very high levels of MTBE affected the central nervous system, blood components, liver, kidneys, adrenals, and reproduction in laboratory animals. Chemicals that cause adverse health effects in animals after high levels of exposure may pose a risk to humans exposed to lower levels over long periods of time. Studies in laboratory animals which breathed or ingested high levels of MTBE over their lifetimes showed a slight increase in tumors. Whether exposure to MTBE causes tumors in humans is unknown.
NYSDOH BTSA 4/1998
Methyl tertiary butyl ether (MTBE) is a colorless, man-made liquid with a gasoline-like odor. It is added to gasoline to increase the octane rating or to reduce carbon monoxide emissions. MTBE is also used medicinally to dissolve cholesterol gallstones in people by injecting it into the gallbladder. MTBE can contaminate groundwater from gasoline spills or leaking storage tanks and is often the first chemical to be detected from a gasoline spill. When gasoline containing MTBE enters groundwater, the MTBE spreads both farther and faster than the other gasoline components. For this reason MTBE is considered a good indicator of gasoline as the source of groundwater contamination.
Data on the health effects of exposure to MTBE are very limited. Information on side effects from the treatment of gallstones and from studies with laboratory animals indicates that MTBE is not highly toxic following short-term exposure. Exposure to high levels of MTBE affects the central nervous system, blood components, liver, kidneys, adrenals, and reproduction in laboratory animals. One study in laboratory animals showed a slight increase in tumors when the animals breathed high levels of MTBE over their lifetimes. Whether MTBE causes tumors in humans is unknown.
USGS investigation.
USGS NAWQA Human-Health Effects of MTBE: A Literature Summary.
Pentachlorophenol is a white-to-tan, man-made pesticide that was once widely used to control bacteria, fungus, insects and other pests and as a wood preservative. Pentachlorophenol is no longer available to the general public, but is widely used by industry as a wood preservative for utility poles (powerline poles and fence posts, for example). It generally gets into drinking water by runoff into surface water or by leaching into groundwater after improper waste disposal.
Pentachlorophenol causes cancer in laboratory animals exposed to high levels over their lifetimes. Chemicals that cause cancer in laboratory animals may increase the risk of cancer in humans exposed to lower levels over long periods of time. Whether pentachlorophenol causes cancer in humans is unknown. Some people exposed to large amounts of pentachlorophenol have suffered liver and kidney damage. Exposure to high levels of pentachlorophenol damages the liver, kidneys and the reproductive system of laboratory animals.
12/93
PCBs are a large group of related man-made chemicals that were used in many commercial and electrical products until their manufacture was banned in the mid-1970s. They generally get into drinking water from improper waste disposal or from leaking submersible water pumps.
Some types of PCBs cause cancer in laboratory animals exposed to high levels over their lifetimes. Chemicals that cause cancer in laboratory animals may increase the risk of cancer in humans exposed to lower levels over long periods of time. Whether PCBs cause cancer in humans is unknown. Industrial workers exposed to large amounts of PCBs suffered skin damage; however, these workers were also exposed to other, more toxic chemicals that may have caused the skin effects. There may be a link between a mother's increased exposure to PCBs and effects on her child's birthweight and behavior. Exposure to high levels of PCBs damages skin, liver and the nervous, immune and reproductive systems of laboratory animals. It also reduces the birthweight and changes the behavior of offspring born to animals exposed before, during and after pregnancy. A few individual PCBs cause birth defects in offspring born to animals exposed to high levels during pregnancy.
NYSDOH BTSA 12/93
Styrene is a colorless, man-made liquid used to make plastics. Products made from styrene are used to remove unwanted minerals from drinking water supplies. Styrene generally gets into drinking water by leaching into groundwater after improper waste disposal.
Exposure to high levels of styrene damages the liver, kidneys and blood of laboratory animals. Chemicals that cause adverse health effects in laboratory animals after high levels of exposure pose a risk of adverse health effects in humans exposed to lower levels over long periods of time. There is conflicting evidence on whether styrene causes cancer in laboratory animals exposed to high levels over their lifetimes. Whether it causes cancer in humans is unknown.
NYSDOH BTSA 12/93
1,2,3,4-Tetrachlorobenzene is a man-made, white crystalline solid used as a component in dielectric fluids and some fungicides. It generally gets into drinking water from improper waste disposal.
1,2,3,4-Tetrachlorobenzene causes damage to the liver and kidneys and effects on blood in laboratory animals exposed to high levels. An increased number of stillborns has been observed in laboratory animals exposed to high levels of this chemical during pregnancy. Chemicals which cause adverse health effects in laboratory animals may also pose a risk of adverse health effects in humans who are exposed at lower levels over long periods of time.
6/92
1,2,4,5-Tetrachlorobenzene is a man-made, white solid used as a chemical intermediate (building block) in the manufacture of some herbicides, as a pesticide, in electric insulation and in moisture-resistant packing materials. It generally gets into drinking water from improper waste disposal.
Some industrial workers exposed to large amounts of 1,2,4,5-tetrachlorobenzene had chromosome damage. Exposure to high concentrations of 1,2,4,5-tetrachlorobenzene causes liver, kidney, and thyroid damage and effects on blood in laboratory animals. An increased number of stillborns has been observed in laboratory animals exposed to high levels of this chemical during pregnancy. Chemicals which cause adverse health effects in exposed workers and laboratory animals may also pose a risk of adverse health effects in humans who are exposed at lower levels over long periods of time.
6/92
Tetrachloroethene (also called tetrachloroethylene or perchloroethylene) is a colorless man-made liquid used as a solvent for dry cleaning fabrics, for removing grease from metal, and as an intermediate (building block) in the manufacture of other chemicals. It is found in some consumer products such as paint and spot removers, water repellents, silicone lubricants, adhesives and wood cleaners. Tetrachloroethene generally gets into drinking water from improper waste disposal and from leaking storage sites.
Tetrachloroethene causes cancer in laboratory animals exposed to high levels over their lifetimes. Chemicals that cause cancer in laboratory animals also may increase the risk of cancer in people who are exposed to lower levels over long periods of time. Whether or not tetrachloroethene causes cancer in humans is unknown. People exposed to large amounts of this chemical in the workplace or from hobbies have had nervous system damage. Exposure to high concentrations of tetrachloroethene has also caused liver and kidney damage in laboratory animals.
7/92 (a NYSDOH BTSA 1998-02 revision also exists)
Toluene is a colorless liquid that is used to make other chemicals and is found in many consumer products such as paints, lacquers, adhesives, rubber, dyes and gasoline. Toluene generally gets into drinking water from improper waste disposal or leaking gasoline storage tanks.
Exposure to large amounts of toluene can damage the nervous system, liver and kidneys. High levels of toluene damage the unborn offspring of laboratory animals exposed during pregnancy. Chemicals that cause adverse health effects in humans and laboratory animals after high levels of exposure may also pose a risk of adverse health effects in humans who are exposed to lower levels over long periods of time.
NYSDOH BTSA 9/1992
Toxaphene is a yellow to tan, man-made pesticide that was once widely used to control insects on cotton, corn, soybeans, pineapple and other crops until most uses were banned in 1982. It generally gets into drinking water by runoff into surface water or by leaching into groundwater after application or improper waste disposal.
Toxaphene causes cancer in laboratory animals that were exposed to high levels over their lifetimes. Chemicals that cause cancer in laboratory animals may increase the risk of cancer in humans exposed to lower levels over long periods of time. Whether toxaphene causes cancer in humans is unknown. Some people exposed to large amounts of toxaphene suffered nervous system damage. Exposure to high levels of toxaphene damages the liver, kidneys and nervous system and immune systems of laboratory animals and the unborn offspring of laboratory animals exposed during pregnancy.
12/93
2,4,5-TP (also called silvex or 2-(2,4,6-trichlorophenoxy)propionic acid) is a white, man-made pesticide that was once widely used to control weeds and brush on rangeland, right-of-ways, pastures, commercial and ornamental grass and around the home. Currently, there are no allowed uses of 2,4,5-TP. It generally gets into drinking water by runoff into surface water or by leaching into groundwater after application or improper waste disposal.
Some industrial workers exposed to large amounts of 2,4,5-TP, related chemicals and their contaminants suffered nervous system damage. Exposure to high levels of 2,4,5-TP damages the liver and kidneys of laboratory animals. Chemicals that cause adverse health effects in workers and laboratory animals after high levels of exposure pose a risk of adverse health effects in humans exposed to lower levels over long periods of time.
12/93
1,2,3-Trichlorobenzene is a man-made, white crystalline solid used as a chemical intermediate (building block) in the manufacture of other chemicals and some herbicides. It is also used as a solvent, a dye carrier and as a dielectric fluid. 1,2,3-Trichlorobenzene generally gets into drinking water from improper waste disposal.
1,2,3-Trichlorobenzene damages the liver and thyroid of laboratory animals exposed to high levels. Chemicals which cause adverse health effects in laboratory animals may also pose a risk of adverse health effects in humans who are exposed at lower levels over long periods of time.
6/92
1,2,4-Trichlorobenzene is a man-made, colorless liquid used as a chemical intermediate (building block) in the manufacture of some herbicides. It is also used as a dye carrier, a solvent and a dielectric fluid. 1,2,4-Trichlorobenzene generally gets into drinking water from improper waste disposal.
1,2,4-Trichlorobenzene damages the liver, kidneys, thyroid, adrenals and nervous system in laboratory animals exposed to high levels. Chemicals which cause adverse health effects in laboratory animals may also pose a risk of adverse health effects in humans who are exposed at lower levels over long periods of time.
6/92
1,3,5-Trichlorobenzene is a man-made, white crystalline solid. It is a component of some pesticides, dyes, solvents, lubricants, and electrical insulator coolants. 1,3,5-Trichlorobenzene generally gets into drinking water from improper waste disposal.
Exposure to high concentrations of 1,3,5-trichlorobenzene causes liver, kidney and thyroid damage in laboratory animals. Chemicals which cause adverse effects in laboratory animals may also pose a risk of adverse health effects in humans who are exposed at lower levels over long periods of time.
6/92
1,1,1-Trichloroethane (also called methyl chloroform) is a colorless man-made liquid that is used primarily as a solvent for removing grease from metal. It has a variety of other solvent uses and is also used as a chemical intermediate (building block) in the production of other chemicals. 1,1,1-Trichloroethane generally gets into drinking water from improper waste disposal.
Some industrial workers exposed to large amounts of 1,1,1-trichloroethane have had nervous system, liver and cardiovascular system damage. Exposure to high concentrations of this chemical causes nervous system, liver and cardiovascular system damage in laboratory animals. Chemicals that cause adverse health effects in humans and laboratory animals after high levels of exposure may also pose a risk of adverse health effects in humans who are exposed to lower levels over long periods of time.
Trichloroethene (also called trichloroethylene) is a colorless, man-made liquid which is used primarily as a solvent for removing grease from metal. It has a variety of other uses such as a dry cleaning solvent and as a chemical intermediate (building block) in the production of other chemicals. It generally gets into drinking water by improper waste disposal.
Trichloroethene causes cancer in laboratory animals exposed at high levels over their lifetimes. Chemicals that cause cancer in laboratory animals also may increase the risk of cancer in humans who are exposed to lower levels over long periods of time. Whether or not trichloroethene causes cancer in humans is unknown. Some humans exposed to large amounts of this chemical have had nervous system, liver and kidney damage. Exposure to high concentrations of trichloroethene causes liver and kidney damage and effects on the immune system and blood in laboratory animals.
NYSDOH BTSA 3/1991
Trichlorofluoromethane (Freon-11) is a colorless, man-made liquid. It was once widely used as an aerosol propellant but now it is used primarily as a refrigerant, as a foaming agent for plastic products and as a solvent/degreasing agent in the aerospace and electronic industry.
Some people exposed to large amounts of trichlorofluoromethane in workplace air had heart, lung and central nervous system damage. Exposure to large amounts of trichlorofluoromethane damaged the heart, liver, kidneys and central nervous and respiratory systems of laboratory animals. Chemicals which cause adverse effects in humans and laboratory animals may also pose a risk to humans who are exposed to lower levels over long periods of time.
NYSDOH BTSA 10/91
2,4,5-Trichlorophenol is a man-made, gray crystalline solid. 2,4,5-Trichlorophenol has not been made in the United States since 1983. In the past, it was used as a chemical intermediate (building block) in the manufacture of several industrial and agricultural chemicals, and as a preservative for textiles, leather, rubber gaskets and adhesives. 2,4,5-Trichlorophenol generally gets into drinking water by improper waste disposal.
Some industrial workers exposed to large amounts of 2,4,5-trichlorophenol had skin damage. Exposure to high concentrations of 2,4,5-trichlorophenol causes liver and kidney damage and lowers body weight in laboratory animals. Chemicals which cause adverse health effects in exposed workers and laboratory animals may also pose a risk of adverse health effects in humans who are exposed at lower levels over long periods of time.
NYSDOH BTSA 6/92
1,1,2-Trichloro-1,2,2-trifluoroethane (Freon-113) is a colorless, man-made liquid. It is used as a degreasing/cleaning solvent, as a refrigerant, as a building-block for other chemicals and as a foaming agent for plastic products.
Some people exposed to large amounts of 1,1,2-trichloro-1,2,2-trifluoroethane in workplace air had heart, lung and central nervous system damage. Exposure to large amounts of 1,1,2-trichloro-1,2,2-trifluoroethane damaged the heart, liver, kidneys, the central nervous and respiratory systems, and possibly the thyroid gland of laboratory animals. Chemicals which cause adverse effects in humans and laboratory animals may also pose a risk to humans who are exposed to lower levels over long periods of time.
NYSDOH BTSA 10/91
Trihalomethanes (THM's) are members of a group of organic chemicals that contain a single carbon atom, one hydrogen atom, and three atoms of either chlorine, bromine, or iodine, or a combination of their atoms. Of the many possible trihalomethanes, there are four that are prevalent in water supplies. They are: chloroform, bromodichloromethane, dibromochloromethane, and bromoform. The total trihalomethane (TTHM) concentration is the sum of the concentrations of these four regulated THM's.
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Chloroform |
Bromodichloromethane |
Bromoform |
Dibromochloromethane |
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Chloroform, which is generally the THM found in the highest concentration, has been determined to be a carcinogen (cancer causing agent) in laboratory mice and rats. Therefore, chloroform is a potential human carcinogen although human studies to date have been inconclusive. Chloroform is known to cause liver damage following chronic exposure to high levels. The chemical similarities of the THM's suggest the possibility they all may be hazardous to health.
The potential human carcinogenicity of chloroform raises the possibility that an individual's risk of developing cancer will be increased by the long-term consumption of drinking water containing an elevated level of THM's. The risk of liver damage is also increased. It must be realized, however, that each person's susceptibility will vary depending on their general health, occupation, genetic history, use of alcohol and other drugs, smoking, nutritional habits, socioeconomic status as well as the ability of each person to deal with all the stresses placed upon them.
The standard established in Part 5 of the State Sanitary Code for THM's is 0.10 milligrams per liter (mg/l). Compliance is determined from results of quarterly sampling on a running annual average basis. The Department of Health policy is that production of THM's should be minimized to the greatest degree practical while maintaining disinfection benefits.
The level of exposure to THM's is relatively low. The New York State and Dutchess County Departments of Health are not recommending that you stop drinking or using the water. However, some people may wish to take certain practical measures which will reduce their exposure. Since the chemical tends to evaporate into the air, use of kitchen or bathroom exhaust fans when using water will reduce the levels of the chemical in the air in your home. Use of less water for bathing or cleaning will reduce exposure through breathing the vapors and through skin contact. Other individuals may choose to use bottled water for drinking and cooking purposes or install point of use treatment devices.
From state fact sheet (9/29/1986) and Staatsburg notice.
See also Disinfection Byproducts and Treatment Techniques and the newer Total Trihalomethanes in the Disinfection Byproducts section.
Vinyl chloride is a man-made colorless gas. It is used primarily to make polyvinyl chloride, a material used to manufacture a variety of plastic and vinyl products including pipes, wire and cable coatings, packaging materials, furniture and automobile upholstery, wall coverings, housewares, and automotive parts. It is also used as a refrigerant gas and in the manufacture of other industrial chemicals. Vinyl chloride generally gets into drinking water from improper waste disposal and breakdown of other solvents.
Vinyl chloride has been associated with increased risk of cancer and possibly miscarriage among industrial workers who were exposed to relatively large amounts of this chemical over a long time in workplace air. Vinyl chloride has also caused cancer in laboratory animals exposed at high levels over their lifetimes. Chemicals that cause cancer among exposed industrial workers and laboratory animals are believed to increase the risk of cancer in humans exposed to lower levels over long periods of time.
3/91
Xylene is a colorless liquid used as a solvent in the printing, rubber, leather, paint and insecticide industries. It is also used to make other chemicals and is found in gasoline. Xylene occurs in three forms: ortho-xylene, meta-xylene, and para-xylene. The three forms have similar properties and are frequently grouped together and called total xylenes or just xylene. Xylene usually gets into drinking water from improper waste disposal or leaking gasoline storage tanks.
People exposed to large amounts of xylene had nervous system, liver and kidney damage. High levels of xylene damage the nervous system, liver kidneys and heart of laboratory animals, and the unborn offspring of laboratory animals exposed during pregnancy. Chemicals that cause adverse health effects in humans and laboratory animals after high levels of exposure may also pose a risk of adverse health effects in humans who are exposed to lower levels over long periods of time.
September, 1992
1. That the source water is of poor quality.
2. That there could be an interference with disinfection.
3. That the filtering system is not performing in an acceptable manner.
4. That there could be interference in microbiological determinations.
5. That disease-causing organisms could survive.
The EPA and NYSDOH have set enforceable drinking water standards for turbidity at less than 0.5 Nephelometric turbidity units (NTU) in 95% of the monthly samples. Also the filtered water turbidity shall never exceed 5.0 NTU. Drinking water which meets the standard is associated with little or no risk and should be considered safe.
By DCHD
Recent severe weather in upstate areas has resulted in deteriorated raw river water quality, including high turbidity measurements, at the raw water intake to the PWSNAME drinking water treatment plant. Because of the poor water quality, the PWSNAME's filters have not been able to consistently reduce turbidity to acceptable State standards. Increased turbidity can indicate an increased risk of contamination from microbiological contaminants, such as bacteria and protozoans, including Giardia lamblia and Cryptosporidium. The PWSNAME water plant operators, with the assistance of State staff, are continuing to evaluate treatment options to correct the problem as expeditiously as possible. - adapted from a 1996 notice
See also WSP 45 for additional problem explanation options.
NYSDOH risk advice pamphlet.
The New York State Department of Health sets drinking water standards and has determined that the presence of microbiological contaminants is a health concern at certain levels of exposure. If water is inadequately treated, microbiological contaminants in that water may cause disease. Disease symptoms may include diarrhea, cramps, nausea, possible jaundice, and any associated headaches and fatigue. These symptoms, however, are not just associated with disease-causing organisms in drinking water but may be caused by a number of factors other than your drinking water. The New York State Department of Health has set enforceable requirements for treating drinking water to reduce the risk of these adverse health effects. Treatments, such as filtration and disinfection, remove or destroy microbiological contaminants.
From Technical Reference PWS 45 April 7, 1993 (currently known as WSP 45 TR 2007-08-06)
See also Cryptosporidium
In some cases boiling water or otherwise treating the water may be recommended. See Microbiological for standard boil and treat language.
See also Notices in templtaa2.doc (2003-01-07) from NYSDOH and EHM item TR PWS22.
This section should be introduced by the statement "Public Water Systems that violate drinking water standards must notify consumers, investigate the problem and propose methods for complying with the standard," followed by information on what the supplier is doing. If known, notices should mention the date by which the problem will be corrected. If the problem has already been corrected, the notice should inform consumers of the date the problem was corrected.
The New York State Department of Health sets drinking water standards and has determined that the presence of total coliform (coliform bacteria) is a possible health concern. Total coliform are common in the environment and are generally not harmful themselves. The presence of these bacteria in drinking water, however, generally is a result of a problem with water treatment or the pipes which distribute the water, and indicates that the water may be contaminated with organisms that can cause disease. Disease symptoms may include diarrhea, cramps, nausea and possibly jaundice and any associated headaches and fatigue. These symptoms, however, are not just associated with disease-causing organisms in drinking water, but also may be caused by a number of factors other than your drinking water. The New York State Department of Health has set an enforceable drinking water standard for total coliform to reduce the risk of these adverse health effects. Under this standard, a system may have no more than one sample containing these bacteria. Drinking water which meets this standard is usually not associated with a health risk form disease-causing bacteria.
In order to insure that disease causing organisms do not exist in your drinking water you may boil the water for at least two minutes, or you may add two drops of bleach disinfectant such as "Clorox" or add four drops of tincture of iodine to 1 gallon of water and let stand 30 minutes before using. Another alternative is to drink bottled water. Individuals that have symptoms described in the above notice may wish to seek medical attention. This is not a "Boil Water Notice" but a notice of concern so that you can take prudent steps to protect your health until the problem has been solved.
The New York State Department of Health sets drinking water standards and has determined that the presence of E. coli is a serious health concern. E. coli are generally not harmful themselves, but their presence in drinking water is serious because they usually are associated with sewage or animal wastes. The presence of these bacteria in drinking water is generally a result of a problem with water treatment or the pipes which distribute the water, and indicates that the water may be contaminated with organisms that can cause disease. Disease symptoms may include diarrhea, cramps, nausea, and possibly jaundice, and associated headaches and fatigue. These symptoms, however, are not just associated with disease-causing organisms in drinking water, but also may be caused by a number of factors other than your drinking water. The New York State Department of Health has set an enforceable drinking water standard for E. coli to reduce the risk of these adverse health effects. Under this standard all drinking water samples must be free of these bacteria. Drinking water which meets this standard is associated with little or none of this risk and should be considered safe. State and local health authorities recommend that consumers take the following precautions.
Bring tap water to a rolling boil, boil for one minute, and cool before using. Or use bottled water certified for sale by the New York State Department of Health. Boiled or bottled water should be used for drinking, making ice, washing dishes, brushing teeth, and preparing food until further notice.
All tap water for human consumption should be boiled for at least two minutes, or add two drops of liquid bleach disinfectant such as "Clorox" or four drops of tincture of iodine to one gallon of water, and let stand for 30 minutes before drinking. Another alternative is to drink bottled water. Individuals who have symptoms described in the above Boil Water Notice may wish to seek medical attention. Please take the above steps to protect your health until further notice.
The Health Department believes that the risk of waterborne disease is low. However, because cryptosporidiosis can be a severe disease in immunocompromised persons, such individuals may want to consider, in consultation with their health care provider, extra precautions to minimize their risk of infection. Precautions may include boiling their drinking water for at least two minutes, purchasing bottled water supplied from a groundwater source and certified for sale by the New York State Department of Health, or utilizing home water filters certified for cyst removal by the National Sanitation Foundation. Examples of immunocompromised persons include individuals with HIV/AIDS, patients receiving cancer treatment, recipients of organ or bone marrow transplants, patients with Crohn's disease, patients on high dose steroids, and persons with congenital immunodeficiencies.
From Technical Reference PWS 45 April 7, 1993
See also SWTR Treatment Technique Violation
New York State law requires water suppliers to notify their customers about the risks of cryptosporidiosis and giardiasis. Cryptosporidiosis and giardiasis are intestinal illnesses caused by microscopic parasites. Cryptosporidiosis can be very serious for people with weak immune systems, such as chemotherapy, dialysis or transplant patients, and people with Crohn's disease or HIV infection. People with weakened immune systems should discuss with their health care providers the need to take extra precautions such as boiling water, using a certified bottled water or specially approved home filter. Individuals who think they may have cryptosporidiosis or giardiasis should contact their health care provider immediately.
Dishes and dishwasher-safe toys may be washed in a commercial dishwasher that has a dry cycle or a final rinse that exceeds 113 °F for 20 minutes or 122 °F for 5 minutes or 162 °F for 1 minute. Cloth toys may be washed and heat-dried in a clothes dryer for 30 minutes. - from CDC WGWC manual 1997
Certain minerals are radioactive and may emit a form of radiation known as alpha radiation. Some people who drink water containing alpha emitters in excess of the MCL over many years may have an increased risk of getting cancer.
EPA November 8, 2006. From 40CFR141 "Alpha emitters"
Certain minerals are radioactive and may emit forms of radiation known as photons and beta radiation. Some people who drink water containing beta and photon emitters in excess of the MCL over many years may have an increased risk of getting cancer.
EPA. From 40CFR141
The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) sets drinking water standards and has determined that beta and photon emitting radionuclides may be of health concern at certain levels of exposure. Beta and photon emitters are primarily man-made radioactive contaminants associated with the operation of nuclear power facilities, facilities using radioactive materials for research or manufacturing, or facilities where these materials are disposed. Some beta emitters are naturally occurring. Beta and photon emitters are expected to occur primarily in surface water. Beta and photon emitters are believed to cause in humans at high exposure levels because they emit ionizing radiation. At lower levels, the risk of cancer is reduced. EPA has set the drinking water standard for beta and photon emitters in public water supplies at 4 (Proposed Standard) millirems effective dose equivalent per year (mrem ede/yr) to protect against cancer risk. Drinking water that meets the EPA standard is associated with little of this risk and is considered safe for Beta and photon emitters.
Some people who drink water containing radium 226 or 228 in excess of the MCL over many years may have an increased risk of getting cancer.
EPA November 8, 2006. From 40CFR141
Like any other metal such as lead, copper, etc., radium does not pose any health risk by inhalation. It does not volatilize. It is not absorbed through skin either. As far as radiation is concerned, radium is mainly an alpha particle emitter. Alpha particles are very reactive so they can be stopped by pretty much anything, air, water, skin, etc and can not travel far. Most alpha particles released by radium will disappear before it is inhaled. Skin will effectively stop all alpha particles as well. Hence, there is no health effect languages for radium by inhalation or dermal contact.
NYSDOH 2008-10-06 Dr. Min-Sook Kim, Ph.D., P.E.
Some people who drink water containing uranium in excess of the MCL over many years may have an increased risk of getting cancer and kidney toxicity.
EPA. From 40CFR141
The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) sets drinking water standards and has determined that radon is of health concern at certain levels of exposure. Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive contaminant that occurs in ground water. It is a gas, and is released from water into the household air during water use. Radon has been found in epidemiology studies to cause lung cancer in humans at high exposure levels; at lower exposure levels the risk of lung cancer is reduced. EPA has set the drinking water standard for radon in public water supplies at 300 (Proposed Standard) picocuries per liter (pCi/l) to protect against lung cancer risk. Drinking water that meets the EPA standard is associated with little of this risk and is considered safe for radon.
Potassium Permanganate (also written as KMnO4) is typically used in water supply treatment plants to oxidize soluble iron and manganese to insoluble precipitates for removal by filtration, and for taste and odor and zebra mussel control. Under normal operations the finished water contains no residual potassium permanganate. Any residual of this chemical will turn the water pink (0.25mg/l) to dark pink (10 mg/l) to purple (1%) in color depending on the concentration; the darker the color the stronger the concentration. A malfunction at a water treatment plant can result in this chemical being present in the finished water. This is immediately noticeable due to the pink to purple color of the water. The presence of this chemical in the finished water is usually of a short term nature, however, certain precautions should be taken until the chemical is flushed out of the system and the water returns to normal.
The basic precaution to take is not to drink or consume the water that has a 'pink' color to it; bottled water can be used as a temporary supply. Dermal contact should also be avoided, especially if the water is highly colored. These same precautions would apply to animals and fish. Staining and fabric damage may occur to laundry; vegetation can also be damaged. Some specific information is as follows: a fatal oral dose in a 175 pound man is 0.5 gallons of a 5% solution on an empty stomach, concentrations of more than 200 mg/l may cause tissue damage, lower concentrations will dry out membranes in the eye, mouth and throat.
The chemical is removed by flushing out the distribution system. The water department will be flushing hydrants, customers should flush their own plumbing system. A brown discoloration may persist for a few days especially for those customers on a dead end water main.
May 6, 1996
See Turbidity and Microbiological