Inorganic Low Risk
Chromium (Total)
Allergic dermatitis, liver and kidney damage
Sources: Natural deposits, Steel mills, Pulp mills
Regulatory Limit
Zero EPA Limit (100 μg/L)
*Levels above the EPA limit are considered unsafe.
MCL Value
100 μg/L
Goal (MCLG)
0 μg/L
Violating Systems
4 nationwide
Affected Population
20.9M estimated
Avg Detected Level
56.74 μg/L in affected systems
Health Risk Assessment
Exposure to Chromium (Total) in drinking water is regulated because of its potential to cause allergic dermatitis, liver and kidney damage. The EPA has set the Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) at 100 μg/L to protect public health.
Note: Long-term exposure above the MCL can significantly increase health risks.
Detailed Health Effects
Allergic dermatitis, liver and kidney damage
Common Sources
1
Natural deposits 2
Steel mills 3
Pulp mills National Overview
Total Tests
49
Violations Found
4
Violation Rate
8.2%
Top States by Violations
Most Affected Systems
89
New Orleans East Water
B LA1070002 New Orleans, LA
120,000 served
81
Metropolitan Water District of Southern California
B CA1910099 Los Angeles, CA
19,000,000 served
73
Suburban Cook County Water
B IL0310002 Chicago, IL
1,500,000 served
37
City of Scottsdale Water
D AZ0410025 Scottsdale, AZ
241,361 served
2 violations
Treatment Methods
Coagulation/filtration
Ion exchange
Reverse osmosis
Is this in your water?
Find out if your local water system has detected Chromium (Total).
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Chromium (Total) and why is it in drinking water?
Chromium (Total) is a inorganic contaminant. Common sources include: Natural deposits, Steel mills, Pulp mills.
What are the health effects of Chromium (Total) in drinking water?
Allergic dermatitis, liver and kidney damage
What is the EPA limit for Chromium (Total)?
The EPA Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) for Chromium (Total) is 100 μg/L.
How can I remove Chromium (Total) from my water?
Effective treatment methods for removing Chromium (Total) include: Coagulation/filtration, Ion exchange, Reverse osmosis.
How do I test my water for Chromium (Total)?
You can check your water system's annual Consumer Confidence Report for Chromium (Total) levels, or use a certified home water testing kit. WaterQ provides the latest EPA test data for all public water systems.