Chromium 6 is a chemical found naturally in the environment, but it can also be released into the water because of industrial activities. It is a highly toxic chemical known to cause cancer and other serious health effects. Chromium 6 is commonly referred to as the "Erin Brockovich chemical," as it was the subject of the 2000 film Erin Brockovich, which told the true story of a legal secretary who helped to expose the presence of chromium 6 in the water supply of a small California town.
There is currently no federal maximum contaminant level (MCL) for chromium 6 in drinking water. Still, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has set a non-enforceable health advisory level of 0.07 parts per billion (ppb) for chromium 6 in drinking water. This means that while the EPA has determined that levels of chromium-6 below 0.07 ppb are not expected to cause any adverse health effects, water utilities have no legal requirement to meet this standard.
Despite the lack of a formal MCL, the dangers of chromium 6 in water are still of concern. Studies have shown that exposure to high levels of chromium-6 can cause cancer and other serious health effects. It is important to take steps to minimize exposure to this chemical. If you are concerned about chromium 6 in your water, it is important to have the water tested and, if necessary, implement appropriate treatment methods to remove or inactivate the chemical.
Exposure to high levels of chromium 6 in water can cause a range of symptoms, including:
• Skin irritation
• Eye irritation
• Nose and throat irritation
Coughing and wheezing
Exposure to high levels of chromium 6 in water over an extended period can also have long-term health effects, including:
• Increased risk of cancer
• Damage to the liver and kidneys
• Reproductive problems
It's important to note that the presence of chromium-6 in water does not always result in illness or disease, and the specific symptoms and health effects that may be caused by chromium-6 exposure can vary depending on the level of exposure and the individual's sensitivity to the chemical. If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms and suspect that the contamination of your water may be the cause, it's important to seek medical attention and have the water tested. If the water contains harmful levels of chromium 6, appropriate treatment methods should be implemented to remove or inactivate the chemical and make the water safe for use.
Granular activated carbon (GAC) and reverse osmosis are two methods that can be used to remove chromium 6 from water.
• GAC involves passing water through a bed of activated carbon, a highly porous material that can adsorb a wide range of chemicals from the water. GAC is effective at removing various chemicals, including chromium 6, and is generally a low-maintenance treatment method.
• Reverse osmosis involves passing water through a membrane that can remove many contaminants, including chemicals, metals, and microorganisms. Reverse osmosis is a highly effective treatment method that can remove a wide range of contaminants from water, including chromium 6. However, it is generally more expensive and requires more maintenance than other treatment methods.
It's important to note that each treatment method has advantages and disadvantages.
The best method for treating water contaminated with chromium-6 will depend on the specific circumstances and the level of contamination.
A Penguin Water Systems certified water specialist can assist you in determining the most effective method for removing chromium-6 from your water.
These specialists have the knowledge and expertise to assess your water's specific characteristics and recommend the most appropriate treatment method based on your unique needs. They can help you identify the best method for removing chromium 6 from your water and ensure that it is safe and high-quality. By working with a certified water specialist, you can be confident that you are making an informed decision about your water treatment and that you are taking the necessary steps to address any water quality issues you may have.
$132.00