EPA Drinking Water Standards: What's Safe?
Understanding contaminant limits and how to read your water quality report
EPA Drinking Water Standards: What's Safe?
Video walkthrough coming soon
What is the Safe Drinking Water Act?
The Safe Drinking Water Act, passed in 1974 and amended several times since, gives the EPA authority to set national standards for drinking water quality and contaminant levels. Every public water system in the U.S. must meet EPA's standards. The EPA's drinking water standards are among the strictest environmental health standards in the world, and comply with them is mandatory for all public water utilities.
MCLs: Maximum Contaminant Levels
The EPA sets MCLs (Maximum Contaminant Levels) for over 90 drinking water contaminants. An MCL is the highest level of a contaminant that is allowed in drinking water. For example, the MCL for lead is 15 parts per billion (ppb), for arsenic is 10 ppb, and for nitrates is 10 ppm. These limits are set based on what is considered safe for long-term consumption, even for vulnerable populations like children and pregnant women. Your local water utility is required to test for these contaminants regularly and report results.
How to read your water quality report
Every public water system provides an annual Water Quality Report (also called a CCR — Consumer Confidence Report) that shows what contaminants were tested, what levels were found, and whether they comply with EPA standards. The report also lists possible health effects of any contaminants detected. If you get water from a city system, you can request this report from your local water department or find it online. If you have a private well, you're responsible for testing — the EPA does not regulate private wells.
Contaminant categories
EPA standards cover microorganisms (bacteria, viruses, Cryptosporidium), disinfection byproducts (formed when chlorine is added to kill microbes), inorganic chemicals (arsenic, lead, nitrates), organic chemicals (pesticides, solvents), and radioactive contaminants (radium, uranium). Different contaminants require different treatment methods. Some require activated carbon filters, some require reverse osmosis, some require water softening. Understanding what you're treating for guides the right solution.
Utah-specific water quality challenges
Utah's water is typically very hard (high in calcium and magnesium), which doesn't pose a health risk but can damage appliances and plumbing. Some Utah areas have naturally elevated levels of arsenic, uranium, or other minerals due to geology. The Salt Lake City area's water comes from mountain sources and is generally high quality, while some rural areas have more contaminants or rely on well water. If you live in Utah, your local water department's annual report will tell you what's specific to your area.
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