Asbestos in Drinking Water: Health Risks, Sources, and How to Remove It
Asbestos is an inorganic contaminant that can occasionally be found in drinking water systems. It is regulated by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), which has established a Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) of 7 MFL for this substance. Monitoring and managing its presence is important to ensure water supplies meet safety standards.
Health Effects
Exposure to asbestos in drinking water is associated with specific long-term health risks. Consuming water containing levels of asbestos exceeding the regulatory limit can lead to an increased risk of developing benign intestinal polyps. Minimizing exposure is important to help prevent these health effects.
How Asbestos Gets Into Tap Water
Asbestos can enter drinking water supplies through a couple of primary pathways. One common source is the decay of older asbestos cement water mains within water distribution systems. Additionally, asbestos fibers can leach into water sources from natural geological deposits.
How to Remove Asbestos From Your Water
There are established public water treatment methods capable of removing asbestos from drinking water. Effective options include coagulation/filtration processes to bind and filter out the fibers. Direct filtration and diatomite filtration are also recognized treatment methods for reducing asbestos levels.
Should You Test Your Water?
To check for asbestos in your drinking water, you can review your local water utility's annual Consumer Confidence Report or perform a search on WaterQ. If you rely on a private well near natural deposits, professional laboratory testing can verify if asbestos is present. You can also look up your local water system on WaterQ or check the Asbestos data page for reported levels in your area.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Asbestos dangerous in drinking water?
Yes, consuming water with elevated levels of asbestos can present health risks. Specifically, ingestion of asbestos fibers is linked to an increased risk of benign intestinal polyps. While not an immediate acute hazard, managing exposure is important for long-term health.
How does Asbestos get into tap water?
Asbestos typically enters tap water through the decay of asbestos cement water mains or from natural mineral deposits. As these pipes degrade or water flows through natural deposits, fibers can be released into the water supply.
How can I remove Asbestos from my water?
Asbestos can be removed using water treatment methods such as coagulation/filtration or direct/diatomite filtration. These methods are typically utilized at the municipal level to treat water before it reaches consumers.
Source: EPA National Primary Drinking Water Regulations and WaterQ National Database. For more contaminants, visit our contaminant library.