Arsenic (As) in Drinking Water Information:

Properties:

Arsenic is a gray metal-like compound called a metalloid, meaning that it acts like both a metal and a nonmetal. It is commonly used in metal alloys, car batteries, semiconductors, pesticides, herbicides and insecticides. In the environment, it is generally bound to other atoms and molecules in its inorganic or organic forms. These compounds do not normally create any odour or taste when dissolved and therefore may go undetected in drinking water.1

Sources:

Arsenic is naturally present in many different minerals and ores and may leach into groundwater as these rocks dissolve and erode. Concentrations of arsenic in groundwater can therefore vary greatly with geographic location and soil composition. Discharge of industrial effluent and fossil fuel burning are two anthropogenic sources of arsenic.2

Regulations:

There is a limit of ten micrograms per litre (10 µg/L) of arsenic in drinking water. 

Health/Environmental Concerns:

Arsenic poisoning is a very serious condition; arsenic is recognized by the World Health Organisation as “one of the two most serious inorganic contaminants in drinking water on a worldwide basis.” Long-term exposure increases one’s risk for cancer, heart disease, and various skin problems.1 Short-term exposure may cause symptoms of acute arsenic poisoning such as vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. The condition can also impact the lungs, skin, kidneys, and liver. 

Action:

If you suspect that arsenic is present in your water, get it tested right away. Any exceedance of the allowable limit should be reported the Water Services Authority immediately. If you develop symptoms of arsenic poisoning, contact a doctor and seek help.

(1) Toxicological Profile for Arsenic; Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services: Atlanta, GA, 2006. 

(2) Guide to the Parameters in the European Communities. What’s in your water?; S. I. No. 278 of 2007; National Federation of Group Water Schemes: Ireland.