Inorganic Medium Risk
Mercury
Kidney damage, nervous system disorders
Sources: Natural deposits, Coal combustion, Mining
Regulatory Limit
Zero EPA Limit (2 μg/L)
*Levels above the EPA limit are considered unsafe.
MCL Value
2 μg/L
Goal (MCLG)
0 μg/L
Violating Systems
5 nationwide
Affected Population
1.9M estimated
Avg Detected Level
1.0315 μg/L in affected systems
Health Risk Assessment
Exposure to Mercury in drinking water is regulated because of its potential to cause kidney damage, nervous system disorders. The EPA has set the Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) at 2 μg/L to protect public health.
Note: Long-term exposure above the MCL can significantly increase health risks.
Detailed Health Effects
Kidney damage, nervous system disorders
Common Sources
1
Natural deposits 2
Coal combustion 3
Mining 4
Industrial discharge National Overview
Total Tests
59
Violations Found
5
Violation Rate
8.5%
Top States by Violations
Most Affected Systems
77
Colorado Springs Utilities
B CO0410001 Colorado Springs, CO
478,961 served
81
Lansing Board of Water and Light
B MI3310001 Lansing, MI
112,644 served
69
City of Virginia Beach Public Utilities
C VA3800300 Virginia Beach, VA
459,470 served
65
Jordan Valley Water Conservancy District
C UT1800021 Salt Lake City, UT
600,000 served
49
City of Plano Water
D TX0430070 Plano, TX
287,677 served
1 violation
Treatment Methods
Coagulation/filtration
Granular activated carbon
Lime softening
Is this in your water?
Find out if your local water system has detected Mercury.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Mercury and why is it in drinking water?
Mercury is a inorganic contaminant. Common sources include: Natural deposits, Coal combustion, Mining, Industrial discharge.
What are the health effects of Mercury in drinking water?
Kidney damage, nervous system disorders
What is the EPA limit for Mercury?
The EPA Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) for Mercury is 2 μg/L.
How can I remove Mercury from my water?
Effective treatment methods for removing Mercury include: Coagulation/filtration, Granular activated carbon, Lime softening.
How do I test my water for Mercury?
You can check your water system's annual Consumer Confidence Report for Mercury levels, or use a certified home water testing kit. WaterQ provides the latest EPA test data for all public water systems.