Inorganic Low Risk
Selenium
Hair and fingernail loss, numbness, circulatory problems
Sources: Natural deposits, Mining, Petroleum refining
Regulatory Limit
Zero EPA Limit (50 μg/L)
*Levels above the EPA limit are considered unsafe.
MCL Value
50 μg/L
Goal (MCLG)
0 μg/L
Violating Systems
7 nationwide
Affected Population
2.9M estimated
Avg Detected Level
31.2328 μg/L in affected systems
Health Risk Assessment
Exposure to Selenium in drinking water is regulated because of its potential to cause hair and fingernail loss, numbness, circulatory problems. The EPA has set the Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) at 50 μg/L to protect public health.
Note: Long-term exposure above the MCL can significantly increase health risks.
Detailed Health Effects
Hair and fingernail loss, numbness, circulatory problems
Common Sources
1
Natural deposits 2
Mining 3
Petroleum refining National Overview
Total Tests
54
Violations Found
7
Violation Rate
13.0%
Top States by Violations
Most Affected Systems
89
DeKalb County Water
B GA1210002 Atlanta, GA
350,000 served
77
Miami-Dade Water and Sewer
B FL1310081 Miami, FL
467,963 served
41
Louisville Water South
D KY0560002 Louisville, KY
200,000 served
65
Erie Water Works
C PA2510001 Erie, PA
101,786 served
69
Charlotte-Mecklenburg Utilities
C NC0132011 Charlotte, NC
500,000 served
41
El Paso Water Utilities
D TX0710001 El Paso, TX
681,728 served
77
Memphis Light Gas and Water
B TN0000790 Memphis, TN
633,104 served
Treatment Methods
Activated alumina
Reverse osmosis
Ion exchange
Is this in your water?
Find out if your local water system has detected Selenium.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Selenium and why is it in drinking water?
Selenium is a inorganic contaminant. Common sources include: Natural deposits, Mining, Petroleum refining.
What are the health effects of Selenium in drinking water?
Hair and fingernail loss, numbness, circulatory problems
What is the EPA limit for Selenium?
The EPA Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) for Selenium is 50 μg/L.
How can I remove Selenium from my water?
Effective treatment methods for removing Selenium include: Activated alumina, Reverse osmosis, Ion exchange.
How do I test my water for Selenium?
You can check your water system's annual Consumer Confidence Report for Selenium levels, or use a certified home water testing kit. WaterQ provides the latest EPA test data for all public water systems.