Cadmium in Drinking Water
16,458Total Violations
7,056Health-Based
0Currently Active
EPA Limit: 0.005 mg/L
The EPA maximum contaminant level for cadmium is 0.005 mg/L.
Where Does Cadmium Come From?
Cadmium enters water supplies from corrosion of galvanized pipes, industrial discharges, and runoff from batteries and paints. It can also leach from some natural deposits.
Health Risks
Long-term exposure can cause kidney damage and bone fragility. Cadmium is classified as a probable human carcinogen.
What Should I Do?
Reverse osmosis, distillation, and ion exchange can remove cadmium. Flushing water lines can help if corrosion of galvanized pipes is the source.
States with Most Cadmium Violations
| State | Health-Based Violations |
|---|---|
| Texas | 4,049 |
| Virginia | 924 |
| California | 607 |
| New Mexico | 592 |
| Arizona | 214 |
| Missouri | 173 |
| Oklahoma | 106 |
| Georgia | 79 |
| Pennsylvania | 68 |
| Arkansas | 49 |