What is the action level for copper in drinking water?

The action level for copper in drinking water is set at 1.3 mg/l. This standard is established by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to protect public health, particularly for vulnerable populations such as pregnant women and children. When the concentration of copper in drinking water exceeds this level, it triggers certain actions that public utilities must undertake to reduce copper levels, which may include corrosion control strategies, public education, and water quality monitoring. The importance of this threshold lies in its role in ensuring safe drinking water and preventing potential health risks associated with elevated copper levels, such as gastrointestinal distress and, with long-term exposure, liver and kidney damage.