What type of contaminants does the term "MCL" refer to in public water systems?

The term "MCL" stands for Maximum Contaminant Level, which refers to the highest permissible level of various contaminants in public water systems as set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) under the Safe Drinking Water Act. MCL applies to various types of contaminants found in drinking water, including chemical substances, biological pathogens, and physical contaminants.

Therefore, while it is accurate to say that MCL specifically pertains to chemical contaminants, it is essential to recognize that the regulation encompasses a broad range of water quality issues. Thus, MCL does not solely address chemical contaminants but is part of a comprehensive framework that includes both microbiological and physical contaminants. This is why MCLs are established for different categories of substances to ensure safe drinking water for the public.

Understanding the range of contaminants under MCL helps water operators ensure that the water supplied is safe and within the regulated limits across all types of potential hazards.