EWG’s Tap Water Database, which aggregates test results from utilities nationwide, shows that in about half of those systems, average annual levels of TCE were above what some health authorities say is safe for infants and developing fetuses.
And it’s not just from drinking water: TCE volatizes from water into indoor air.
TCE is also a serious health concern for those who depend on private wells for their drinking water supply.
National action required In December 2016, the EPA proposed banning uses of TCE as an aerosol degreaser and a spot cleaner.
But for TCE and three other chemicals, the EPA excluded key exposures from polluted air, water and soil from the scope of its safety assessments.
The EPA should also establish a new federal drinking water standard for TCE at a level that would protect children’s health.
TCE in indoor air Even when drinking water utilities or homeowners install a TCE-removing treatment for drinking water, people may be still exposed to TCE vapors in the air of homes, schools and workplaces if the groundwater or soil are contaminated.
TCE vapor intrusion is most of concern for people and communities near the hazardous waste sites where TCE contamination has reached the groundwater.
TCE has also been reported as a problem for indoor air in schools and preschool facilities.
EWG’s advice for families If TCE is found in your water, even at levels below the federal legal limit, EWG highly recommends filtering your water.