Organic Medium Risk
Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs)
Skin changes, thymus gland problems, immune deficiencies, cancer risk
Sources: Industrial waste, Landfill runoff
Regulatory Limit
Zero EPA Limit (0.5 μg/L)
*Levels above the EPA limit are considered unsafe.
MCL Value
0.5 μg/L
Goal (MCLG)
0 μg/L
Violating Systems
0 nationwide
Affected Population
0 estimated
Avg Detected Level
0 μg/L in affected systems
Health Risk Assessment
Exposure to Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs) in drinking water is regulated because of its potential to cause skin changes, thymus gland problems, immune deficiencies, cancer risk. The EPA has set the Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) at 0.5 μg/L to protect public health.
Note: Long-term exposure above the MCL can significantly increase health risks.
Detailed Health Effects
Skin changes, thymus gland problems, immune deficiencies, cancer risk
Common Sources
1
Industrial waste 2
Landfill runoff National Overview
Total Tests
0
Violations Found
0
Violation Rate
0%
Treatment Methods
Granular activated carbon
Is this in your water?
Find out if your local water system has detected Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs).
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs) and why is it in drinking water?
Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs) is a organic contaminant. Common sources include: Industrial waste, Landfill runoff.
What are the health effects of Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs) in drinking water?
Skin changes, thymus gland problems, immune deficiencies, cancer risk
What is the EPA limit for Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs)?
The EPA Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) for Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs) is 0.5 μg/L.
How can I remove Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs) from my water?
Effective treatment methods for removing Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs) include: Granular activated carbon.
How do I test my water for Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs)?
You can check your water system's annual Consumer Confidence Report for Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs) levels, or use a certified home water testing kit. WaterQ provides the latest EPA test data for all public water systems.