Benzo[a]pyrene
United States Navy -fort Adams
Benzo[a]pyrene is a polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon, or PAH, released from combustion of fossil fuels and waste incinerators. PAHs increase the risk of cancer; damage the immune, nervous and reproductive systems; and can harm developing fetuses.
Testing results - average by year
Year | Average result | Samples taken | Detections | Range of results |
---|---|---|---|---|
2014 | 0.0227 ppb | 22 | 5 | ND - 0.1000 ppb |
2015 | 0.00909 ppb | 11 | 1 | ND - 0.1000 ppb |
2016 | 0.0500 ppb | 14 | 4 | ND - 0.200 ppb |
2017 | 0.0133 ppb | 30 | 2 | ND - 0.200 ppb |
2018 | 0.0200 ppb | 20 | 2 | ND - 0.200 ppb |
2019 | ND | 19 | 0 | ND |
ppb = parts per billion
State and national drinking water standards and health guidelines
EWG Health Guideline 0.007 ppb
The EWG Health Guideline of 0.007 ppb for benzo[a]pyrene was defined by the California Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment as a public health goal, the level of a drinking water contaminant that does not pose a significant health risk. This health guideline protects against cancer.
EPA Maximum Contaminant
Level (MCL) 0.2 ppb
The legal limit for benzo[a]pyrene, established in 1992, was based on analytical detection limits at the time that the standard was set. This limit may not fully protect against the risk of cancer due to PAH exposure.
ppb = parts per billion
All test results
Date | Lab ID | Result |
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