Radionuclide Low Risk
Gross Alpha Particle Activity
Increased risk of cancer
Sources: Natural deposits, Mining waste
Regulatory Limit
Zero EPA Limit (15 pCi/L)
*Levels above the EPA limit are considered unsafe.
MCL Value
15 pCi/L
Goal (MCLG)
0 pCi/L
Violating Systems
6 nationwide
Affected Population
1.7M estimated
Avg Detected Level
8.5197 pCi/L in affected systems
Health Risk Assessment
Exposure to Gross Alpha Particle Activity in drinking water is regulated because of its potential to cause increased risk of cancer. The EPA has set the Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) at 15 pCi/L to protect public health.
Note: Long-term exposure above the MCL can significantly increase health risks.
Detailed Health Effects
Increased risk of cancer
Common Sources
1
Natural deposits 2
Mining waste National Overview
Total Tests
56
Violations Found
6
Violation Rate
10.7%
Top States by Violations
Most Affected Systems
93
Dublin Water Services
A OH2510002 Columbus, OH
50,000 served
53
City of Raleigh Public Utilities
C NC0392010 Raleigh, NC
474,069 served
85
Jersey City MUA
B NJ0906001 Jersey City, NJ
292,449 served
77
Miami-Dade Water and Sewer
B FL1310081 Miami, FL
467,963 served
21
South Burlington Water Department
F VT0005162 South Burlington, VT
20,292 served
1 violation
30
Aurora Water
D CO0110002 Aurora, CO
386,261 served
1 violation
Treatment Methods
Reverse osmosis
Ion exchange
Is this in your water?
Find out if your local water system has detected Gross Alpha Particle Activity.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Gross Alpha Particle Activity and why is it in drinking water?
Gross Alpha Particle Activity is a radionuclide contaminant. Common sources include: Natural deposits, Mining waste.
What are the health effects of Gross Alpha Particle Activity in drinking water?
Increased risk of cancer
What is the EPA limit for Gross Alpha Particle Activity?
The EPA Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) for Gross Alpha Particle Activity is 15 pCi/L.
How can I remove Gross Alpha Particle Activity from my water?
Effective treatment methods for removing Gross Alpha Particle Activity include: Reverse osmosis, Ion exchange.
How do I test my water for Gross Alpha Particle Activity?
You can check your water system's annual Consumer Confidence Report for Gross Alpha Particle Activity levels, or use a certified home water testing kit. WaterQ provides the latest EPA test data for all public water systems.