What is the maximum allowable total chlorine residual in drinking water?

The maximum allowable total chlorine residual in drinking water is set at 4 mg/l. This guideline is established to ensure that chlorine levels are effective for disinfection purposes while minimizing the risk of adverse health effects. Chlorine is commonly used in water treatment processes to eliminate harmful pathogens; however, excessive levels can lead to issues such as taste and odor problems, and may pose health risks if consumed over long periods. Regulatory agencies, such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), have established this limit to balance effective water treatment with the safety of consumers. Therefore, maintaining the chlorine residual at or below this level is critical for safe drinking water.