| Barium |
N
|
0.6
|
0.008
- 0.6 |
ppm
|
2
|
2
|
Discharge
of drilling wastes; discharge from metal refineries; erosion of
natural deposits |
Some
people who drink water containing barium in excess of the MCL over
many years could experience an increase in their blood pressure. |
| Copper |
N
|
0.548
|
0.001 - 0.548
|
ppm
|
1.3
|
AL=
1.3
|
Corrosion
of household plumbing systems; erosion of natural deposits;
leaching from wood preservatives |
Copper
is an essential nutrient, but
some people who drink water
containing copper in excess of the action level over a relatively
short period of time could experience gastrointestinal
distress. Some people who drink water containing copper in
excess of the action level over many years could suffer liver or
kidney damage. People with Wilson's Disease should consult their
personal doctor. |
| Fluoride |
N
|
1.74
|
0.15
- 1.74 |
ppm
|
4
|
4
|
Erosion
of natural deposits; water additive which promotes strong teeth,
discharge from fertilizer and aluminum factories |
Some
people who drink water containing fluoride in excess of the MCL
over many years could get bone disease, including pain and
tenderness of the bones. Children may get mottled teeth. |
| Nitrate |
N
|
4.79
|
0.01
- 4.79 |
ppm
|
10
|
10
|
Runoff
from fertilizer use, leaching from septic tanks, sewage;
erosion of natural deposits |
Nitrate
in drinking water levels above 10 ppm is a health risk for
infants of less than six months of age. High nitrate levels in
drinking water can cause blue baby syndrome. Nitrate levels
may rise quickly for short periods of time because of rainfall
or agricultural activity. If you are caring for an infant, you
should ask advice from your health care provider. |
| Sodium |
N |
104 |
39
- 104 |
ppm |
50 |
RUL
50 |
Naturally
occurring in underground aquifers |
For
healthy individuals, the sodium intake from water is not
important because a much greater intake of sodium takes
place in the diet. However, sodium levels above the
Recommended Upper Limit may of concern to individuals on
sodium restricted diet. |
| Sulfate |
N |
9.7 |
1.4
- 9.7 |
ppm |
250 |
RUL
250 |
Occurs
naturally in waters as a result of leachings from gypsum
and other common materials. Can also be a result of many
different types of industrial waste |
The
Recommended Upper Limit for sulfate is based on salty
taste and possible laxative effects to the drinking water. |