310 C.M.R. 22.16
(1) (a) Public Water Systems Required to Notify. Each Supplier of Water for a Public Water System (Community Water Systems, Non-transient Non-community Water Systems, and Transient Non-community Water Systems) shall give notice for all violations of National Primary Drinking Water Regulations (NPDWR), 310 CMR 22.00 and for other situations, as listed in 310 CMR 22.16: Table 1 or specified by the Department in writing. The term "violations" is used in 310 CMR 22.16 to include violations of the Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL), maximum residual Disinfection level (MRDL), Treatment Technique (TT), monitoring requirements, and testing procedures defined in 310 CMR 22.00 or specified by the Department in writing. 310 CMR 22.16: Table 2 identifies the tier assignment for each specific violation or situation requiring a public notice.
310 CMR 22.16: Table 1
Violation Categories and other Situations Requiring a Public Notice
1. Violations.
2. Variance and Exemptions under 310 CMR 22.13, 22.13A and 22.14.
3. Special Public Notices.
(b) Tier Classification. Public notice requirements are divided into three tiers, to take into account the seriousness of the violation or situation and of any potential adverse health effects that may be involved. The public notice requirements for each violation or situation listed in 310 CMR 22.16: Table 1 are determined by the tier to which the violation is assigned. 310 CMR 22.16: Table 2 provides the definition of each tier. 310 CMR 22.16: Table 6 identifies the tier assignment for each specific violation or situation.
310 CMR 22.16: Table 2 Definition of Public Notice Tiers
(c) Persons to be Notified.
(2) Tier 1 Public Notice.
(a) Violations or Situations Requiring Tier 1 Public Notice. 310 CMR 22.16: Table 3 lists the violation categories and other situations requiring a Tier 1 Public Notice. 310 CMR 22.16: Table 6 identifies the tier assignment for each specific violation or situation.
310 CMR 22.16: Table 3
Violation Categories and Other Situations Requiring a Tier 1 Public Notice
7. Occurrence of a Waterborne Disease Outbreak, as defined in 310 CMR 22.02(1), or other waterborne Emergency such as:
(b) Timeframe and Additional Requirements for Tier 1 Notification. Each Supplier of Water required to give Tier 1 notification shall:
(c) Form and Manner of Public Notice. Each Supplier of Water shall provide the notice within 24 hours in a form and manner reasonably calculated to reach all Persons served unless it is an Emergency situation identified in 310 CMR 22.04(13). For Emergencies identified in 310 CMR 22.04(13), each Supplier of Water shall provide the notice within the time frame specified in 310 CMR 22.16(b)(4) in a form and manner reasonably calculated to reach all Persons served. The form and manner used by the supplier are to fit the specific situation, but shall be designed to reach residential, transient, and non-transient users of the water system and meet the minimum information and format requirements specified by the Department.
1. In order to reach all Persons served, each Supplier of Water is required to use, at a minimum, one or more of the following forms of delivery:
(3) Tier 2 Public Notice.
(a) Violations or Situations Requiring Tier 2 Public Notice. 310 CMR 22.16: Table 4 lists the violation categories and other situations requiring a Tier 2 Public Notice. 310 CMR 22.16: Table 6 identifies the tier assignment for each specific violation or situation.
310 CMR 22.16: Table 4
Violation Categories and Other Situations Requiring a Tier 2 Public Notice
(b) Timeframe Required for Tier 2 Notification.
1. a. Each Supplier of Water shall provide the public notice as soon as practical, but no later than 30 days after the system learns of the violation.
2. a. Each Supplier of Water shall repeat the notice every three months as long as the violation or situation persists, unless the Department determines in writing that appropriate circumstances warrant a different repeat notice frequency.
3. a. For the Turbidity violations specified in 310 CMR 22.16: Table 6, the Supplier of Water shall consult with the Department as soon as practical but no later than 24 hours after the Public Water System learns of the violation, to determine whether a Tier 1 Public Notice under 310 CMR 22.16(2)(a): Table 3 is required to protect public health.
c. Consultation with the Department is required for:
4. For corrosion control treatment changes that last more than seven days, the Public Water Systems must:
(c) Form and Manner of Public Notice. Each Supplier of Water shall provide the initial public notice and any repeat notices in a form and manner that is reasonably calculated to reach Persons served in the required time period. The form and manner of the public notice may vary based on the specific situation and type of water system, but it shall at a minimum meet the following requirements:
1. Unless directed otherwise by the Department in writing, Community Water Systems shall provide notice by:
2. Unless directed otherwise by the Department in writing, the owner/operator of a Non-community Water System shall provide notice by:
(4) Tier 3 Public Notice.
(a) Violations or Situations Requiring Tier 3 Public Notice. 310 CMR 22.16: Table 5 lists the violation categories and other situations requiring a Tier 3 Public Notice. 310 CMR 22.16: Table 6 identifies the tier assignment for each specific violation or situation.
310 CMR 22.16: Table 5
Violation Categories and Other Situations Requiring a Tier 3 Public Notice
(b) Timeframe Required for Tier 3 Notification.
1. a. Unless otherwise determined by the Department, each supplier of water shall provide the public notice not later than one year after the public water system learns of the violation or situation or begins operating under a variance or exemption.
(c) Form and Manner of Public Notice. Each supplier of water who is required to give Tier 3 notice shall provide the initial public notice and any repeat notices in a form and manner that is reasonably calculated to reach Persons served in the required time period. The form and manner of the public notice may vary based on the specific situation and type of water system, but it shall at a minimum meet the following requirements:
1. Unless directed otherwise by the Department in writing, community water systems shall provide notice by:
2. Unless directed otherwise by the Department in writing, the owner/operator of a non-community water system shall provide notice by:
(d) If approved by the Department, the supplier of water may use the Consumer Confidence Report (CCR) required under 310 CMR 22.16A as a vehicle for the initial Tier 3 public notice and all required repeat notices, as long as:
(5) Public Notice Content.
(a) When a Supplier of Water violates 310 CMR 22.00 or has a situation requiring public notification, each public notice shall include the following elements:
(b) Public Notice Requirements for Systems Operating under a Variance or Exemption.
1. If a Supplier of Water has been granted a variance or an exemption, the public notice shall contain:
(c) Public Notice Presentation.
1. Each public notice required by 310 CMR 22.16(5):
2. Multilingual Requirements.
(d) Standard Language.
(6) Notice to New Billing Units or New Customers.
(7) Special Notice of the Availability of Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring Results.
(8) Special Notice for Exceedance of the SMCL for Fluoride.
(c) The notice shall contain the following language, including the language necessary to fill in the blanks: "This is an alert about your drinking water and a cosmetic dental problem that might affect children younger than nine years old. At low levels, fluoride can help prevent cavities, but children drinking water containing more than two milligrams per liter (mg/l) of fluoride may develop cosmetic discoloration of their permanent teeth (dental fluorosis). The drinking water provided by your community water system [name] has a fluoride concentration of [insert value] mg/l.
Dental fluorosis, in its moderate or severe forms, may result in a brown staining and/or pitting of the permanent teeth. This problem occurs only in developing teeth, before they erupt from the gums. Children younger than nine years old should be provided with alternative sources of drinking water or water that has been treated to remove the fluoride to avoid the possibility of staining and pitting of their permanent teeth. You may also want to contact your dentist about proper use by young children of fluoride-containing products. Older children and adults may safely drink the water.
Drinking water containing more than four mg/L of fluoride (the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's drinking water standard) can increase your risk of developing bone disease. Your drinking water does not contain more than four mg/l of fluoride, but we're required to notify you when we discover that the fluoride levels in your drinking water exceed two mg/l because of this cosmetic dental problem. For more information, please call [name of water system contact] of [name of community water system] at [phone number]. Some home water treatment units are also available to remove fluoride from drinking water. To learn more about available home water treatment units, you may call NSF International at 1-877-8-NSF-HELP."
(9) Special Notice for Nitrate Exceedance above MCL by Non-community Water Systems, Where Granted Permission by the Department.
(10) Notice by Department in Behalf of the Supplier of Water.
(11) Public Notification by the Department for any Public Water System Subject to 310 CMR 22.00.
(b) The Department reserves the right to give notice to the public when not required by 310 CMR 22.16 in the event of a significant health problem. The supplier of water shall be responsible for all fees incurred by the Department as a result such notice.
310 CMR 22.16 - Table 6
Violations and Other Situations Requiring Public Notice 1
Monitoring & testing procedure
MCL/MRDL/TT violations 2
violations
Tier of Tier of
Contaminant
public public
Citation Citation
notice notice required required
A. M icrobiological Contaminants 1.a. Total coliform (TT violations resulting 2 310 CM R 3 310 CM R 22.05(11)(c)1. from failure to perform assessments or 22.05(11)(b)1. 310 CM R 22.05(11)(d)1. corrective actions, monitoring violations, and reporting violations). 1.b. Seasonal System failure to follow 2 310 CM R 3 310 CM R 22.05(11)(d)3. Department-approved start-up plan prior to 22.05(11)(b)(2) serving water to the public or failure to provide certification to the State. 2.a. E. coli (MCL, monitoring, and reporting 1 310 CM R 22.05(11)(a) 3 310 CM R 22.05(11)(c)2. violations). 310 CM R 22.05(11)(d)1.
310 CM R 22.05(11)(d)2.
2.b. E. coli (TT violations resulting from 2 310 CM R ____ ______ failure to perform Level 2 Assessments or 22.05(11)(b)1. corrective action). 3. Turbidity MCL. 2 310 CM R 22.08 3 310 CM R 22.08
310 CM R 22.20A 310 CM R 22.20A 310 CM R 22.20D 310 CM R 22.20D
5
4. Turbidity MCL (average of 2 days' 2, 1 310 CM R 22.08 3 310 CM R 22.08 samples > five NTU). 310 CM R 22.20A 310 CM R 22.20A
6
5. Turbidity (for TT violations resulting from 2, 1 310 CM R 22.08 3 310 CM R 22.08 a single exceedance of maximum allowable 310 CM R 22.20A 310 CM R 22.20A Turbidity level). 310 CM R 22.20D 310CM R 22.20D
310 CM R 22.20F 310 CM R 22.20F
6. Surface W ater Treatment Rule violations, 2 310 CM R 22.20A 3 310 CM R 22.20A other than violations resulting from single exceedance of max. allowable Turbidity level (TT).
7
9. Long Term 1 Enhanced Surface W ater 2 310 CM R 22.20F 3 310 CM R 22.20F Treatment Rule.
21
11. Ground W ater Rule violations. 2 310 CMR 22.26(5) 3 310 CMR 22.26(3)( h)
310 CM R 22.26(4)(d)
Monitoring & testing procedure
MCL/MRDL/TT violations 2
violations
Tier of Tier of
Contaminant
public public
Citation Citation
notice notice required required
1. Antimony 2 310 CM R 22.06 3 310 CM R 22.06
8 9
25. Oxamyl (Vydate) 2 310 CM R 22.07A 3 310 CM R 22.07A
Monitoring & testing procedure
MCL/MRDL/TT violations 2
violations
Tier of Tier of
Contaminant
public public
Citation Citation
notice notice required required
3. Combined radium (226 & 228) 2 310 CM R 22.09A 3 310 CM R 22.09A
11, 12
7. Chlorine dioxide (MRDL) where any two 2 310 CM R 22.07E 3 310 CM R 22.07E consecutive daily samples at entrance to Distribution System only are above MRDL
Monitoring & testing procedure
MCL/MRDL/TT violations 2
violations
Tier of Tier of
Contaminant
public public
Citation Citation
notice notice required required
III. Public Notification for Variances and Exemptions:
17
A. Operation under a variance or exemption 3 310 CM R 22.13 N/A N/A
310 CM R 22.14 18
E. Other waterborne or water supply 1 N/A N/A N/A emergency .19
20
Table 6 - Endnotes 1. Violations and other situations not listed in this table (e.g. failure to prepare Consumer Confidence Reports), do not require notice, unless otherwise determined by the Department. The Department may, at its option, also require a more stringent public notice tier (e.g., Tier 1 instead of Tier 2 or Tier 2 instead of Tier 3) for specific violations and situations listed in this Table, as authorized under 310 CMR 22.16(2)(a) and (3)(a).
2. MCL-Maximum contaminant level, MRDL-Maximum Residual Disinfectant Level, TT-Treatment Technique.
3. The term Violations of 310 CMR 22.00 is used here to include violations of MCL, MRDL, Treatment Technique, monitoring, and testing procedure requirements.
4. Failure to test for fecal coliform or E. coli is a Tier 1 violation if testing is not done after any repeat sample tests positive for coliform. All other total coliform monitoring and testing procedure violations are Tier 3.
5. Systems that violate the Turbidity MCL of five NTU based on an average of measurements over two consecutive days shall consult with the Department within 24 hours after learning of the violation. Based on this consultation, the Department may subsequently decide to elevate the violation to Tier 1. If a system is unable to make contact with the Department in the 24-hour period, the violation is automatically elevated to Tier 1.
6. Systems with Treatment Technique violations involving a single exceedance of a maximum Turbidity limit under 310 CMR 22.20A, the Surface Water Treatment Rule (SWTR), 310 CMR 22.20D, the Interim Enhanced Surface Water Treatment Rule (IESWTR), or 310 CMR 22.20F, the Long Term 1 Enhanced Surface Water Treatment Rule, are required to consult with the Department within 24 hours after learning of the violation. Based on this consultation, the Department may subsequently decide to elevate the violation to Tier 1. If a system is unable to make contact with the Department in the 24-hour period, the violation is automatically elevated to Tier 1.
7. Most of the requirements of the Interim Enhanced Surface Water Treatment Rule 310 CMR 22.20D become effective January 1, 2002 for Surface Water Sources systems (surface water systems and groundwater systems under the direct influence of surface water) serving at least 10,000 persons. However, 310 CMR 22.20D has some requirements that become effective as early as April 16, 1999. The Surface Water Treatment Rule, 310 CMR 22.20A, remains in effect for some systems serving at least 10,000 persons even after 2002; the Interim Enhanced Surface Water Treatment Rule, 310 CMR 22.20D, adds additional requirements and does not in many cases supersede the SWTR.
8. The arsenic MCL citations are effective January 23, 2006.
9. The arsenic Tier 3 violation citations are effective January 23, 2006.
10. Failure to take a confirmation sample within 24 hours for nitrate, nitrite or perchlorate after an initial sample exceeds the MCL is a Tier 1 violation. Other monitoring violations for nitrate, nitrite or perchlorate are Tier 3.
11. The uranium MCL Tier 2 violation citations are effective December 8, 2003 for all Community Water Systems.
12. The uranium MCL Tier 3 violation citations are effective December 8, 2003 for all Community Water Systems.
13. Community and non-transient non-community Surface Water Sources systems (surface water systems and groundwater systems under the direct influence of surface water) serving at least 10,000 persons shall comply with the new DBP MCLs, Disinfectant MRDLs, and related monitoring requirements beginning January 1, 2002. All other Community and Non-transient Non-community Water Systems shall meet the MCLs and MRDLs beginning January 1, 2004. Transient non-community Surface Water Sources systems (surface water systems and groundwater systems under the direct influence of surface water) serving at least 10,000 persons using chlorine dioxide as a Disinfectant or oxidant shall comply with the chlorine dioxide MRDL beginning January 1, 2002. Transient non-community Surface Water Sources systems (surface water systems and groundwater systems under the direct influence of surface water) serving at least 10,000 persons and Transient Non-community Water Systems serving fewer than 10,000 persons and Transient Non-community Water Systems using only groundwater not under the direct influence of surface water and using chlorine dioxide as a Disinfectant or oxidant shall comply with the chlorine dioxide MRDL beginning January 1, 2004.
14. Failure to monitor for chlorine dioxide at the entrance to the Distribution System the day after exceeding the MRDL at the entrance to the Distribution System is a Tier 2 violation.
15. If any daily sample taken at the entrance to the Distribution System exceeds the MRDL for chlorine dioxide and one or more samples taken in the Distribution System the next day exceed the MRDL, Tier 1 notification is required. Failure to take the required samples in the Distribution System after the MRDL is exceeded at the entry point also triggers Tier 1 notification.
16. Some water systems shall monitor for certain unregulated contaminants listed in 310 CMR 22.07C.
17. This citation refers to 310 CMR 22.13 and 22.14 and requires that "a schedule prescribed for a Public Water System granted a variance [or exemption] shall require compliance by the system".
18. In addition, 310 CMR 22.13A specifies the items and schedule milestones that shall be included in a variance for small systems.
19. Other waterborne Emergencies require a Tier 1 Public Notice under 310 CMR 22.16 (2)(a)7. for situations that do not meet the definition of a Waterborne Disease Outbreak given in 310 CMR 22.02(1) but that still have the potential to have serious adverse effects on health as a result of short-term exposure. These could include outbreaks not related to treatment deficiencies, as well as situations that have the potential to cause outbreaks, such as failures or significant interruption in water treatment processes, natural disasters that disrupt the water supply or Distribution System, chemical spills, or unexpected loading of possible pathogens into the source water.
20. The Department may place other situations in any tier they believe appropriate, based on threat to public health.
21. Failure to collect three or more samples for Cryptosporidium analysis is a Tier 2 violation requiring special notice as specified in 310 CMR 22.16(12). All other monitoring and testing procedure violations are Tier 3.
310 CMR 22.16: Table 7
Standard Health Effects Language for Public Notification 1 2
MCLG mg/l MCL mg/l Standard health effects language for public
Contaminant
notification
National Primary Drinking W ater Regulations (NPDW R) and Massachusetts Drinking W ater Regulations: A. Microbiological Contaminants: 1a. Coliform Assessment N/A TT Coliforms are bacteria that are naturally present in and/or Corrective Action the environment and are used as an indicator that Violations other, potentially harmful, waterborne pathogens
may be present or that a potential pathway exists through which contamination may enter the drinking water distribution system. W e found coliforms indicating the need to look for potential problems in water treatment or distribution. When this occurs, we are required to conduct assessments to identify problems and to correct any problems that are found. [THE SYSTEM M UST USE THE FOLLOW ING APPLICABLE SENTENCES.] W e failed to conduct the required assessment. W e failed to correct all identified sanitary defects that were found during the assessment(s).
1b. E. coli Zero MCL violation if any of E. coli are bacteria whose presence indicates that the
the following: water may be contaminated with human or animal (1) The system has an E. wastes. Human pathogens in these wastes can cause coli-positive repeat short-term effects, such as diarrhea, cramps, nausea, sample following a total headaches, or other symptoms. They may pose a coliform- positive routine greater health risk for infants, young children, the sample. elderly, and people with severely compromised (2) The system has a total immune systems. coliform-positive repeat sample following an E. coli-positive routine sample. (3) The system fails to take all required repeat samples following an E. coli- positive routine sample. (4) The system fails to test for E. coli when any repeat sample tests positive for total coliform.
1c. Fecal indicators (GW R) Fecal indicators are microbes whose presence i. E.coli Zero TT indicates that the water may be contaminated with ii. enterococci None TT human or animal wastes. Microbes in these wastes iii. coliphage None TT can cause short-term, health effects, such as
diarrhea, cramps, nausea, headaches, or other symptoms. They may pose a special health risk for infants, young children, some of the elderly, and people with severely compromised immune systems.
1 2
MCLG mg/l MCL mg/l Standard health effects language for public
Contaminant
notification
National Primary Drinking W ater Regulations (NPDW R) and Massachusetts Drinking W ater Regulations: 1d. Ground Water Rule (GW R) None TT Inadequately treated or inadequately protected water TT violations may contain disease-causing organisms. These
organisms can cause symptoms such as diarrhea, nausea, cramps, and associated headaches.
1e. E. coli Assessment and/or N/A TT E. coli are bacteria whose presence indicates that the Corrective Action Violations water may be contaminated with human or animal
wastes. Human pathogens in these wastes can cause short-term effects, such as diarrhea, cramps, nausea, headaches, or other symptoms. They may pose a greater health risk for infants, young children, the elderly, and people with severely compromised immune systems. W e violated the standard for E. coli, indicating the need to look for potential problems in water treatment or distribution. W hen this occurs, we are required to conduct a detailed assessment to identify problems and to correct any problems that are found. [THE SYSTEM M UST USE THE FOLLOW ING APPLICABLE SENTENCES.] W e failed to conduct the required assessment. W e failed to correct all identified sanitary defects that were found during the assessment that we conducted.
1f. Seasonal System TT N/A TT W hen this violation includes the failure to monitor Violations for total coliforms or E. coli prior to serving water
to the public, the mandatory language found at 310 CM R 22.16(5)(d)2. must be used.
W hen this violation includes failure to complete other actions, the appropriate elements found in 310 CMR 22.16(5)(a) to describe the violation must be used.
4 5
2a. Turbidity (MCL) None one NTU Turbidity has no health effects. However, turbidity
five NTU can interfere with disinfection and provide a
medium for microbial growth. Turbidity may indicate the presence of disease-causing organisms. These organisms include bacteria, Viruses, and parasites that can cause symptoms such as nausea, cramps, diarrhea and associated headaches.
6 7
2b. Turbidity (SW TR TT) None TT Turbidity has no health effects. However, turbidity
can interfere with disinfection and provide a medium for microbial growth. Turbidity may indicate the presence of disease-causing organisms. These organisms include bacteria, Viruses, and parasites that can cause symptoms such as nausea, cramps, diarrhea and associated headaches.
2c. Turbidity (IESW TR TT) None TT Turbidity has no health effects. However, turbidity and LT1ESW TR TT) 8 can interfere with disinfection and provide a
medium for microbial growth. Turbidity may indicate the presence of disease-causing organisms. These organisms include bacteria, Viruses, and parasites that can cause symptoms such as nausea, cramps, diarrhea and associated headaches.
1 2
MCLG mg/l MCL mg/l Standard health effects language for public
Contaminant
notification
National Primary Drinking W ater Regulations (NPDW R) and Massachusetts Drinking W ater Regulations: B. Surface W ater Treatment Rule (SW TR), Interim Enhanced Surface W ater Treatment Rule (IESW TR), Filter Backwash Recycling Rule (FBRR) and Long Term 1 Enhanced Surface W ater Treatment Rule (LT1ESW TR) violations: 3. Giardia lamblia (SWTR/IESW TR/LT1ESW TR) . 4. Viruses (SWTR/IESW TR/ LT1ESW TR).
Inadequately treated water may contain disease-
5. Heterotrophic plate count
causing organisms. These organisms include
(HPC) bacteria9
Zero TT 10 bacteria, Viruses, and parasites which can cause
(SWTR/IESW TR/LT1ESW TR)
symptoms such as nausea, cramps, diarrhea, and
.
associated headaches.
8. Antimony 0.01 0.006 Some people who drink water containing antimony
well in excess of the MCL over many years could experience increases in blood cholesterol and decreases in blood sugar.
11
9. Arsenic None 0.05 Some people who drink water containing arsenic in
excess of the MCL over many years could experience skin damage or problems with their circulatory system, and may have an increased risk of getting cancer.
12
10. Asbestos (fibers > 10 µm) 7MFL 7MFL Some people who drink water containing asbestos in
excess of the MCL over many years may have an increased risk of developing benign intestinal polyps.
11. Barium 2 2 Some people who drink water containing barium in
excess of the MCL over many years could experience an increase in their blood pressure.
12. Beryllium 0 0.004 Some people who drink water containing beryllium
well in excess of the MCL over many years could develop intestinal lesions.
13. Cadmium 0.01 0.005 Some people who drink water containing cadmium
in excess of the MCL over many years could experience kidney damage.
14. Chromium (total). 0.1 0.1 Some people who use water containing chromium
well in excess of the MCL over many years could experience allergic dermatitis.
15. Cyanide 0.2 0.2 Some people who drink water containing cyanide
well in excess of the MCL over many years could experience nerve damage or problems with their thyroid.
16. Fluoride 4 4 Some people who drink water containing fluoride in
excess of the MCL over many years could get bone disease, including pain and tenderness of the bones. Fluoride in drinking water at half the MCL or more may cause mottling of children's teeth, usually in children younger than nine years old. Mottling, also known as dental fluorosis, may include brown staining and/or pitting of the teeth, and occurs only in developing teeth before they erupt from the gums.
1 2
MCLG mg/l MCL mg/l Standard health effects language for public
Contaminant
notification
National Primary Drinking W ater Regulations (NPDW R) and Massachusetts Drinking W ater Regulations: 17. Mercury (inorganic) 0 0.002 Some people who drink water containing inorganic
mercury well in excess of the MCL over many years could experience kidney damage.
18. Nitrate 10 10 Infants younger than six months old who drink
water containing nitrate in excess of the MCL could become seriously ill and, if untreated, may die. Symptoms include shortness of breath and blue baby syndrome.
19. Nitrite 1 1 Infants younger than six months oldwho drink water
containing nitrite in excess of the MCL could become seriously ill and, if un-treated, may die. Symptoms include shortness of breath and blue baby syndrome.
20. Total Nitrate and Nitrite 10 10 Infants younger than six months old who drink
water containing nitrate and nitrite in excess of the MCL could become seriously ill and, if untreated, may die. Symptoms include shortness of breath and blue baby syndrome.
21. Perchlorate None 0.002 Perchlorate interferes with the normal function of
the thyroid gland and thus has the potential to affect growth and development and could cause brain damage and other adverse effects, particularly in fetuses and infants.
22. Selenium 0.05 0.05 Selenium is an essential nutrient. However, some
people who drink water containing selenium in excess of the MCL over many years could experience hair or fingernail losses, numbness in fingers or toes, or problems with their circulation.
23. Thallium 0 0.002 Some people who drink water containing thallium in
excess of the MCL over many years could experience hair loss, changes in their blood, or problems with their kidneys, intestines, or liver.
D. Lead and Copper Rule:
13
24. Lead Zero TT Infants and children who drink water containing
lead in excess of the action level could experience delays in their physical or mental development. Children could show slight deficits in attention span and learning abilities. Adults who drink this water over many years could develop kidney problems or high blood pressure.
14
25. Copper 1.3 TT Copper is an essential nutrient, but some people
who drink water containing copper in excess of the action level over a relatively short amount of time could experience gastrointestinal distress. Some people who drink water containing copper in excess of the action level over many years could suffer liver or kidney damage. People with W ilson's Disease should consult their personal doctor.
26. 2,4-D 0.07 0.07 Some people who drink water containing the weed
killer 2,4-D well in excess of the MCL over many years could experience problems with their kidneys, liver, or adrenal glands.
1 2
MCLG mg/l MCL mg/l Standard health effects language for public
Contaminant
notification
National Primary Drinking W ater Regulations (NPDW R) and Massachusetts Drinking W ater Regulations: 27. 2,4,5-TP (Silvex) 0.05 0.05 Some people who drink water containing silvex in
excess of the MCL over many years could experience liver problems.
28. Alachlor Zero 0.002 Some people who drink water containing alachlor in
excess of the MCL over many years could have problems with their eyes, liver, kidneys, or spleen, or experience anemia, and may have an increased risk of getting cancer.
29. Atrazine 0 0.003 Some people who drink water containing atrazine
well in excess of the MCL over many years could experience problems with their cardiovascular system or reproductive difficulties.
30. Benzo(a)pyrene (PAHs). Zero 0 Some people who drink water containing
benzo(a)pyrene in excess of the MCL over many years may experience reproductive difficulties and may have an increased risk of getting cancer.
31. Carbofuran 0.04 0.003 Some people who drink water containing carbofuran
in excess of the MCL over many years could experience problems with their blood, or nervous or reproductive systems.
32. Chlordane Zero 0.002 Some people who drink water containing chlordane
in excess of the MCL over many years could experience problems with their liver or nervous system, and may have an increased risk of getting cancer.
33. Dalapon 0.2 0.2 Some people who drink water containing dalapon
well in excess of the MCL over many years could experience minor kidney changes.
34. Di (2-ethylhexyl) adipate 0.4 0.4 Some people who drink water containing di (2-
ethylhexyl) adipate well in excess of the MCL over many years could experience general toxic effects or reproductive difficulties.
35. Di (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate Zero 0.006 Some people who drink water containing di (2-
ethylhexyl) phthalate in excess of the MCL over many years may have problems with their liver, or experience reproductive difficulties, and may have an increased risk of getting cancer.
36. Dibromochloropropane Zero 0 Some people who drink water containing DBCP in (DBCP) excess of the MCL over many years could
experience reproductive difficulties and may have an increased risk of getting cancer.
37. Dinoseb 0.01 0.007 Some people who drink water containing dinoseb
well in excess of the MCL over many years could experience reproductive difficulties.
- 8
38. Dioxin (2,3,7,8-TCDD) Zero 3x10 Some people who drink water containing dioxin in
excess of the MCL over many years could experience reproductive difficulties and may have an increased risk of getting cancer.
39. Diquat 0.02 0.02 Some people who drink water containing diquat in
excess of the MCL over many years could get cataracts.
40. Endothall 0.1 0.1 Some people who drink water containing endothall
in excess of the MCL over many years could experience problems with their stomach or intestines.
1 2
MCLG mg/l MCL mg/l Standard health effects language for public
Contaminant
notification
National Primary Drinking W ater Regulations (NPDW R) and Massachusetts Drinking W ater Regulations: 41. Endrin 0 0.002 Some people who drink water containing endrin in
excess of the MCL over many years could experience liver problems.
42. Ethylene dibromide Zero 0 Some people who drink water containing ethylene
dibromide in excess of the MCL over many years could experience problems with their liver, stomach, reproductive system, or kidneys, and may have an increased risk of getting cancer.
43. Glyphosate 0.7 0.7 Some people who drink water containing glyphosate
in excess of the MCL over many years could experience problems with their kidneys or reproductive difficulties.
44. Heptachlor Zero 0 Some people who drink water containing heptachlor
in excess of the MCL over many years could experience liver damage and may have an increased risk of getting cancer.
45. Heptachlor epoxide Zero 0 Some people who drink water containing heptachlor
epoxide in excess of the MCL over many years could experience liver damage, and may have an increased risk of getting cancer.
46. Hexachlorobenzene Zero 0.001 Some people who drink water containing
hexachlorobenzene in excess of the MCL over many years could experience problems with their liver or kidneys, or adverse reproductive effects, and may have an increased risk of getting cancer.
47. Hexachlorocyclopenta- 0.05 0.05 Some people who drink water containing diene hexachlorocyclopentadiene well in excess of the
MCL over many years could experience problems with their kidneys or stomach.
48. Lindane 0 0 Some people who drink water containing lindane in
excess of the MCL over many years could experience problems with their kidneys or liver.
49. Methoxychlor 0.04 0.04 Some people who drink water containing
methoxychlor in excess of the MCL over many years could experience reproductive difficulties.
50. Oxamyl (Vydate) 0.2 0.2 Some people who drink water containing oxamyl in
excess of the MCL over many years could experience slight nervous system effects.
51. Pentachlorophenol Zero 0.001 Some people who drink water containing
pentachlorophenol in excess of the MCL over many years could experience problems with their liver or kidneys, and may have an increased risk of getting cancer.
52. Picloram 0.5 0.5 Some people who drink water containing picloram
in excess of the MCL over many years could experience problems with their liver.
53. Polychlorinated biphenyls Zero 0.001 Some people who drink water containing PCBs in (PCBs). excess of the MCL over many years could
experience changes in their skin, problems with their thymus gland, immune deficiencies, or reproductive or nervous system difficulties, and may have an increased risk of cancer.
54. Simazine 0 0.004 Some people who drink water containing simazine
in excess of the MCL over many years could experience problems with their blood.
55. Toxaphene Zero 0.003 Some people who drink water containing toxaphene.
in excess of the MCL over many years could have problems with their kidneys, liver, or thyroid, and
1 2
MCLG mg/l MCL mg/l Standard health effects language for public
Contaminant
notification
National Primary Drinking W ater Regulations (NPDW R) and Massachusetts Drinking W ater Regulations:
may have an increased risk of getting cancer.
56. Benzene Zero 0.005 Some people who drink water containing benzene in
excess of the MCL over many years could experience anemia or a decrease in blood platelets, and may have an increased risk of cancer.
57. Carbon tetrachloride Zero 0.005 Some people who drink water containing carbon
tetrachloride in excess of the MCL over many years could experience problems with their liver and may have an increased risk of getting cancer.
58. Chlorobenzene 0.1 0.1 Some people who drink water containing (monochloro- benzene) chlorobenzene in excess of the MCL over many
years could experience problems with their liver or kidneys.
59. o-Dichlorobenzene 0.6 0.6 Some people who drink water containing o-
dichlorobenzene well in excess of the MCL over many years could experience problems with their liver, kidneys, or circulatory systems.
60. p-Dichlorobenzene 0.01 0.005 Some people who drink water containing p-
dichlorobenzene in excess of the MCL over many years could experience anemia, damage to their liver, kidneys, or spleen, or changes in their blood.
61. 1,2-Dichloroethane Zero 0.005 Some people who drink water containing 1,2-
dichloroethane in excess of the MCL over many years may have an increased risk of getting cancer.
62. 1,1-Dichloroethylene 0.01 0.007 Some people who drink water containing 1,1-
dichloroethylene in excess of the MCL over many years could experience problems with their liver.
63. cis-1,2- Dichloroethylene. 0.07 0.07 Some people who drink water containing cis-1,2-
dichloroethylene in excess of the MCL over many years could experience problems with their liver.
64. trans-1,2- 0.1 0.1 Some people who drink water containing Dichloroethylene. trans-1,2-dichloroethylene well in excess of the
MCL over many years could experience problems with their liver.
65. Dichloromethane Zero 0.005 Some people who drink water containing
dichloromethane in excess of the MCL over many years could have liver problems and may have an increased risk of getting cancer.
66. 1,2-Dichloropropane Zero 0.005 Some people who drink water containing 1,2-
dichloropropane in excess of the MCL over many years may have an increased risk of getting cancer.
67. Ethylbenzene 0.7 0.7 Some people who drink water containing
ethylbenzene well in excess of the MCL over many years could experience problems with their liver or kidneys.
68. Styrene 0.1 0.1 Some people who drink water containing styrene
well in excess of the MCL over many years could have problems with their liver, kidneys, or circulatory system.
1 2
MCLG mg/l MCL mg/l Standard health effects language for public
Contaminant
notification
National Primary Drinking W ater Regulations (NPDW R) and Massachusetts Drinking W ater Regulations: 69. Tetrachloroethylene Zero 0.005 Some people who drink water containing
tetrachloroethylene in excess of the MCL over many years could have problems with their liver, and may have an increased risk of getting cancer.
70. Toluene 1 1 Some people who drink water containing toluene
well in excess of the MCL over many years could have problems with their nervous system, kidneys, or liver.
71. 1,2,4-Trichlorobenzene 0.07 0.07 Some people who drink water containing 1,2,4-
trichlorobenzene well in excess of the MCL over many years could experience changes in their adrenal glands.
72. 1,1,1-Trichloroethane 0.2 0.2 Some people who drink water containing 1,1,1-
trichloroethane in excess of the MCL over many years could experience problems with their liver, nervous system, or circulatory system.
73. 1,1,2-Trichloroethane 0 0.005 Some people who drink water containing 1,1,2-
trichloroethane well in excess of the MCL over many years could have problems with their liver, kidneys, or immune systems.
74. Trichloroethylene Zero 0.005 Some people who drink water containing tri-
chloroethylene in excess of the MCL over many years could experience problems with their liver and may have an increased risk of getting cancer.
75. Vinyl chloride Zero 0.002 Some people who drink water containing vinyl
chloride in excess of the MCL over many years may have an increased risk of getting cancer.
76. Xylenes (total) 10 10 Some people who drink water containing xylenes in
excess of the MCL over many years could experience damage to their nervous system.
G. Radioactive Contaminants:
15
77. Beta/photon emitters Zero 4 mrem/yr Certain minerals are radioactive and may emit forms
of radiation known as photons and beta radiation. Some people who drink water containing beta and photon emitters in excess of the MCL over many years may have an increased risk of getting cancer.
17
78. Alpha emitters Zero 15 pCi/l Certain minerals are radioactive and may emit a
form of radiation known as alpha radiation. Some people who drink water containing alpha emitters in excess the MCL over many years may have an increased risk of getting cancer.
79. Combined radium (226 & Zero 5 pCi/l Some people who drink water containing radium 228). 226 or 228 in excess of the MCL over many years
may have an increased risk of getting cancer.
16
80. Uranium Zero 30 mg/L Some people who drink water containing uranium in
excess of the MCL over many years may have an increased risk of getting cancer and kidney toxicity.
H. Disinfection Byproducts (DBPs),Byproduct Precursors, Disinfectant Residuals. W here Disinfection used in the treatment of drinking water, Disinfectants combine with organic and inorganic matter present in water to form chemicals called Disinfection byproducts (DBPs). EPA sets standards for controlling the levels of Disinfectants and DBPs in drinking water, including Trihalomethanes (THMs) and haloacetic acid (HAAs).18
19, 20
81. Total trihalomethanes N/A 0.080 Some people who drink water containing (TTHMs) (TTHMs) Trihalomethanes in excess of the MCL over many
years may experience problems with their liver, kidneys, or central nervous system, and may have an increased risk of getting cancer.
82. Haloacetic Acids (HAA) N/A 0.06021 Some people who drink water containing haloacetic
acids in excess of the MCL over many years may
1 2
MCLG mg/l MCL mg/l Standard health effects language for public
Contaminant
notification
National Primary Drinking W ater Regulations (NPDW R) and Massachusetts Drinking W ater Regulations:
have an increased risk of getting cancer.
83. Bromate Zero 0.01 Some people who drink water containing bromate in
excess of the MCL over many years may have an increased risk of getting cancer.
84. Chlorite 0.08 1 Some infants and young children who drink water
containing chlorite in excess of the MCL could experience nervous system effects. Similar effects may occur in fetuses of pregnant women who drink water containing chlorite in excess of the MCL. Some people may experience anemia.
22 23
85. Chlorine 4 (MRDLG) 4.0 (MRDL) Some people who use water containing chlorine
well in excess of the MRDL could experience irritating effects to their eyes and nose. Some people who drink water containing chlorine well in excess of the MRDL could experience stomach discomfort.
86. Chloramines 4 (MRDLG) 4.0 (MRDL) Some people who use water containing chloramines
well in excess of the MRDL could experience irritating effects to their eyes and nose. Some people who drink water containing chloramines well in excess of the MRDL could experience stomach discomfort or anemia.
87a. Chlorine dioxide, where 0.8 (MRDLG) 0.8 (MRDL) Some infants and young children who drink water any two consecutive daily containing chlorine dioxide in excess of the MRDL samples taken at the entrance to could experience nervous system effects. Similar the Distribution System are effects may occur in fetuses of pregnant women who above the MRDL. drink water containing chlorine dioxide in excess of
the MRDL. Some people may experience anemia. Add for public notification only: The chlorine dioxide violations reported today are the result of exceedances at the treatment facility only, not within the distribution system which delivers water to consumers. Continued compliance with chlorine dioxide levels within the distribution system minimizes the potential risk of these violations to consumers.
87b. Chlorine dioxide, where 0.8 (MRDLG) 0.8 (MRDL) Some infants and young children who drink water one or more Distribution System containing chlorine dioxide in excess of the MRDL samples are above the MRDL. could experience nervous system effects. Similar
effects may occur in fetuses of pregnant women who drink water containing chlorine dioxide in excess of the MRDL. Some people may experience anemia. Add for public notification only: The chlorine dioxide violations reported today include exceedances of the EPA standard within the distribution system which delivers water to consumers. Violations of the chlorine dioxide standard within the distribution system may harm human health based on short-term exposures. Certain groups, including fetuses, infants, and young children, may be especially susceptible to nervous system effects from excessive chlorine dioxide exposure.
1 2
MCLG mg/l MCL mg/l Standard health effects language for public
Contaminant
notification
National Primary Drinking W ater Regulations (NPDW R) and Massachusetts Drinking W ater Regulations: 88. Control of DBP precursors None TT Total organic carbon (TOC) has no health effects. (TOC) However, total organic carbon provides a medium
for the formation of disinfection byproducts. These byproducts include Trihalomethanes (THMs) and haloacetic acids (HAAs). Drinking water containing these byproducts in excess of the MCL may lead to adverse health effects, liver or kidney problems, or nervous system effects, and may lead to an increased risk of getting cancer.
89. Acrylamide Zero TT Some people who drink water containing high levels
of acrylamide over a long period of time could have problems with their nervous system or blood, and may have an increased risk of getting cancer.
90. Epichlorohydrin Zero TT Some people who drink water containing high levels
of epichlorohydrin over a long period of time could experience stomach problems, and may have an increased risk of getting cancer.
J. Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS)
24
91. PFAS6 None 20 ng/l Some people who drink water containing these
PFAS in excess of the MCL may experience certain adverse effects. These could include effects on the liver, blood, immune system, thyroid, and fetal development. These PFAS may also elevate the risk of certain cancers.
1. MCLG-Maximum Contaminant Level Goal.
2. MCL-Maximum Contaminant Level.
3. [Reserved]
4. The MCL for the monthly Turbidity average is one NTU; the MCL for the two-day average is one NTU for systems that are required to filter, but have not yet installed Filtration (310 CMR 22.08).
5. NTU-Nephelometric turbidity unit.
6. Systems subject to the Surface Water Treatment Rule (both filtered and unfiltered) may not exceed one NTU. In addition, in filtered systems, 95% of samples each month shall not exceed 0.5 NTU in systems using conventional or Direct Filtration and shall not exceed one NTU in systems using slow sand or diatomaceous earth filtration or other Filtration technologies approved by the Department.
7. TT-Treatment Technique.
8. For systems subject to 310 CMR 22.20D (systems serving at least 10,000 people, using Surface Water or Groundwater Under the Direct Influence of Surface Water), that use conventional filtration or Direct Filtration, after January 1, 2002, the Turbidity level of a system's combined filter effluent may not exceed 0.3 NTU in at least 95% of monthly measurements, and the Turbidity level of a system's combined filter effluent shall not exceed one NTU at any time. Systems subject to 310 CMR 22.20D using technologies other than conventional, direct, slow sand, or diatomaceous earth filtration shall meet Turbidity limits set by the Department. For systems subject to 310 CMR 22.20F (systems serving fewer than 10,000 people, using Surface Water or Groundwater Under the Influence of Surface Water) that use conventional or Direct Filtration, after January 1, 2005 the Turbidity level of a system's combined filter effluent may not exceed 0.3 NTU in at least 95% of monthly measurements, and the Turbidity level of a system's combined filter effluent must not exceed one NTU at any time. Systems subject to 310 CMR 22.20F using technologies other than conventional, direct, slow sand, or diatomaceous earth filtration must meet Turbidity limits set by the Department.
9. The bacteria detected by heterotrophic plate count (HPC) are not necessarily harmful. HPC is simply an alternative method of determining Disinfectant residual levels. The number of such bacteria is an indicator of whether there is enough Disinfectant in the distribution system.
10. 310 CMR 22.20A, 22.20D, and 22.20F Treatment Technique violations that involve Turbidity exceedances may use the health effects language for Turbidity instead.
11. These arsenic values are effective January 23, 2006.
12. Million fibers per liter.
13. Action Level = 0.015 mg/L.
14. Action Level = 1.3 mg/L.
15. Millirems per year.
16. The uranium MCL is effective December 8, 2003 for all Community Water Systems.
17. Picocuries per liter.
18. Surface water systems and groundwater systems under the direct influence of surface water are regulated under 310 CMR 22.20A. Community and non-transient non-community Surface Water Sources systems (surface water systems and groundwater systems under the direct influence of surface water) serving at least 10,000 persons shall comply with DBP MCLs and Disinfectant Maximum Residual Disinfectant Levels (MRDLs) beginning January 1, 2002. All other Community and Non-transient Non-community Water Systems shall meet the MCLs and MRDLs beginning January 1, 2004. Transient non-community Surface Water Sources systems (surface water systems and groundwater systems under the direct influence of surface water) serving at least 10,000 or more persons using chlorine dioxide as a Disinfectant or oxidant shall comply with the chlorine dioxide MRDL beginning January 1, 2002. Transient non-community Surface Water Sources systems (surface water systems and groundwater systems under the direct influence of surface water) serving fewer than 10,000 persons and Transient Non-community Water Systems using only groundwater not under the direct influence of surface water and using chlorine dioxide as a Disinfectant or oxidant shall comply with the chlorine dioxide MRDL beginning January 1, 2004.
19. Community and Non-transient Non-community Water Systems must comply with TTHM and HAA5 MCLs listed in 310 CMR 22.07F of 0.080 mg/L and 0.060 mg/L, respectively (with compliance calculated as a Locational Running Annual Average) on the schedule in 310 CMR 22.07F(7).
20. The MCL for Total Trihalomethanes is the sum of the concentrations of the individual Trihalomethanes.
21. The MCL for haloacetic acids is the sum of the concentrations of the individual haloacetic acids.
22. MRDLG-Maximum Residual Disinfectant Level Goal.
23. MRDL-Maximum Residual Disinfectant Level.
24. Nanograms per liter.
(12) Special Notice for Repeated Failure to Conduct Monitoring of the Source Water for Cryptosporidium and for Failure to Determine Bin Classification or Mean Cryptosporidium Level.
(d) The notice must contain the following language, including the language necessary to fill in the blanks.
1. The special notice for repeated failure to conduct monitoring must contain the following language: We are required to monitor the source of your drinking water for Cryptosporidium. Results of the monitoring are to be used to determine whether water treatment at the (treatment plant name) is sufficient to adequately remove Cryptosporidium from your drinking water. We are required to complete this monitoring and make this determination by (required bin determination date). We ''did not monitor or test'' or ''did not complete all monitoring or testing'' on schedule and, therefore, we may not be able to determine by the required date what treatment modifications, if any, must be made to ensure adequate Cryptosporidium removal. Missing this deadline may, in turn, jeopardize our ability to have the required
treatment modifications, if any, completed by the deadline required, (date). For more information, please call (name of water system contact) of (name of water system) at (phone number).
(13) Special Notice to the Public of Significant Deficiencies or Source Water Fecal Contamination.
(b) In addition to the applicable public notification requirements of 310 CMR 22.16, a non- community groundwater system that receives notice from the Department of a Significant Deficiency must inform the public served by the water system in a manner approved by the Department, unless otherwise provided for the system by the Department pursuant to 310 CMR 22.16A, of any Significant Deficiency that has not been corrected within 12 months of being notified by the Department, or earlier if directed by the Department. The system must continue to inform the public annually until the Significant Deficiency is corrected. The information must include: