What is the MCL for Arsenic in drinking water?

The maximum contaminant level (MCL) for arsenic in drinking water is 0.010 parts per million (ppm), which translates to 10 parts per billion (ppb). This standard was established by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to protect public health. Arsenic is a known carcinogen and can cause various adverse health effects, particularly with long-term exposure. By setting the MCL at 0.010 ppm, the regulation aims to minimize these health risks and ensure that drinking water is safe for consumption.

Other figures presented, such as 0.08 ppm, 0.06 ppm, and 0.015 ppm, are above the regulatory limit. The enforcement of the 0.010 ppm standard is based on toxicity data and the need to limit exposure to harmful contaminants. Therefore, the MCL of 0.010 ppm serves as a crucial benchmark for water quality monitoring and treatment processes in water supply systems.