Drinking-Water Contaminants- Cyanide

　　Drinking Water Cyanide Contamination

　　This text outlines the presence of a chemical in both public and private water systems, which can pose health threats if its concentration exceeds the limits set by the EPA. What is Cyanide and its uses? Cyanide is characterized by a carbon-nitrogen bond present in numerous organic and inorganic substances, with hydrogen cyanide being the most commonly used, predominantly in nylon and synthetic material production. Some cyanide compounds are also used as herbicides. Why is there a regulation on Cyanide? The EPA is required by the Safe Drinking Water Act of 1974 to determine safe levels for chemicals in drinking water that could negatively impact health. These guidelines, known as Maximum Contaminant Level Goals (MCLGs), are based solely on health risks and the potential for exposure. The MCLG for cyanide is 0.2 ppm, aiming to avoid the health concerns mentioned below. The EPA has also established a Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) consistent with the MCLG, taking into account water systems’ capability to detect and treat contaminants. The MCL for cyanide is set at 0.2 ppm, the lowest concentration achievable by water systems. These guidelines and enforcing rules are referred to as the National Primary Drinking Water Regulations, which all public water systems must adhere to. What are the health effects? Short-term exposure to cyanide levels above the MCL may cause rapid breathing, tremors, and neurological effects, while long-term exposure can lead to weight loss, thyroid problems, and nerve damage. What are the environmental emissions of Cyanide? In the late 1980s and early 1990s, the production of common cyanides was roughly 5 billion pounds annually. Key sources of cyanide in water include metal finishing industries, steel mills, and chemical plants, while soil contamination usually results from landfill disposal and road salt application. From 1987 to 1993, approximately 1.5 million pounds of cyanide compounds were released into land and water, primarily from steel and metal heat treating industries, with the highest emissions in California and Pennsylvania. What happens when Cyanide is released into the environment? Cyanides do not last long in water or soil and are unlikely to build up in aquatic life; they are rapidly evaporated and decomposed by microorganisms and may seep into groundwater. How is Cyanide detected and removed from drinking water? Cyanide regulations were implemented in 1992, with the EPA mandating water suppliers to test for cyanide levels above 0.2 ppm and to continue monitoring if detected. If levels frequently exceed the MCL, suppliers must lower cyanide levels using methods such as Ion Exchange, Reverse Osmosis, and Chlorination. How will I be notified if Cyanide is found in my drinking water? If cyanide levels exceed the MCL, the public will be informed through various channels. If needed, alternative water sources may be provided to reduce health risks. This information sheet concerns a chemical that might be found in water sources and is part of the EPA’s Drinking Water and Health resources, specifically the EPA National Primary Drinking Water Regulations. Drinking Water Standards: MCLG: 0.2 ppm, MCL: 0.2 ppm. Cyanide Releases to Water and Land (1987-1993): Water: 939,611 lbs, Land: 641,082 lbs. Top Ten States for Releases: CA, PA, IN, OH, TX, MD. Major Industries: Blast furnaces & steel, Metal heat treating, Organic chemicals, Plating & polishing.