TTHM
Description
Trihalomethanes occur when naturally-occurring organic and inorganic materials in the water react with the disinfectants, chlorine and chloramine.
Health Effects
Liver, kidney or central nervous system problems; increased risk of cancer
Total Haloacetic Acids (HAA5)
Description
Haloacetic acids occur when naturally-occurring organic and inorganic materials in the water react with the disinfectants, chlorine and chloramine.
Health Effects
Increased risk of cancer
Coliform (TCR)
Description
Coliforms are bacteria that are naturally present in the environment and used as an indicator that other, potentially harmful, bacteria may be present. Coliforms found in more samples than allowed is a warning of potential problems.
Health Effects
Not a health threat in itself; it is used to indicate whether other potentially harmful bacteria may be present5
Radium-226
Description
An alpha emitter with a 1,600 year half life that is part of the uranium decay series. It is the progeny of Th-230, and the parent of Radon-222. [Radium is an analogue for calcium in the body and can accumulate in bone.]
Health Effects
Increased risk of cancer
Arsenic
Description
Arsenic is a semi-metal element in the periodic table. It is odorless and tasteless. It enters drinking water supplies from natural deposits in the earth or from agricultural and industrial practices. Approximately 90 percent of industrial arsenic in the U.S. is currently used as a wood preservative, but arsenic is also used in paints, dyes, metals, drugs, soaps, and semi-conductors. Agricultural applications, mining, and smelting also contribute to arsenic releases in the environment.
Health Effects
Skin damage or problems with circulatory systems, and may have increased risk of getting cancer
Chlorine
Description
The gaseous or liquid form of chlorine (CL2) is a water additive used by municipal water systems to control microbes. It is relatively inexpensive and has the lowest production and operating costs and longest history for large continuous disinfection operations. Chlorine is a powerful oxidant.
Health Effects
Eye/nose irritation; stomach discomfort
Fluoride
Description
Fluoride compounds are salts that form when the element, fluorine, combines with minerals in soil or rocks. Many communities add fluoride to their drinking water to promote dental health.
Health Effects
Bone disease (pain and tenderness of the bones); Children may get mottled teeth
Thallium, Total
Description
Thallium is a metal found in natural deposits such as ores containing other elements. The greatest use of thallium is in specialized electronic research equipment.
Health Effects
Hair loss; changes in blood; kidney, intestine, or liver problems