Organic Low Risk
Haloacetic Acids (HAA5)
Increased risk of cancer
Sources: Disinfection byproducts
Regulatory Limit
Zero EPA Limit (60 μg/L)
*Levels above the EPA limit are considered unsafe.
MCL Value
60 μg/L
Goal (MCLG)
0 μg/L
Violating Systems
5 nationwide
Affected Population
1.2M estimated
Avg Detected Level
30.8338 μg/L in affected systems
Health Risk Assessment
Exposure to Haloacetic Acids (HAA5) 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 60 μg/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
Disinfection byproducts National Overview
Total Tests
52
Violations Found
5
Violation Rate
9.6%
Top States by Violations
Most Affected Systems
93
Aqua Pennsylvania (Philadelphia)
A PA1510002 Philadelphia, PA
450,000 served
65
Broward County Water
C FL0060462 Fort Lauderdale, FL
120,000 served
81
Fort Wayne City Utilities
B IN5202001 Fort Wayne, IN
270,402 served
61
Waukesha Water Utility
C WI2410002 Milwaukee, WI
72,000 served
85
Madison Water Utility
B WI1310001 Madison, WI
269,840 served
Treatment Methods
Granular activated carbon
Enhanced coagulation
Is this in your water?
Find out if your local water system has detected Haloacetic Acids (HAA5).
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Haloacetic Acids (HAA5) and why is it in drinking water?
Haloacetic Acids (HAA5) is a organic contaminant. Common sources include: Disinfection byproducts.
What are the health effects of Haloacetic Acids (HAA5) in drinking water?
Increased risk of cancer
What is the EPA limit for Haloacetic Acids (HAA5)?
The EPA Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) for Haloacetic Acids (HAA5) is 60 μg/L.
How can I remove Haloacetic Acids (HAA5) from my water?
Effective treatment methods for removing Haloacetic Acids (HAA5) include: Granular activated carbon, Enhanced coagulation.
How do I test my water for Haloacetic Acids (HAA5)?
You can check your water system's annual Consumer Confidence Report for Haloacetic Acids (HAA5) levels, or use a certified home water testing kit. WaterQ provides the latest EPA test data for all public water systems.