What is the EPA action level for lead in water?

The EPA action level for lead in drinking water is set at 0.015 mg/L. This standard is established to protect public health, particularly for vulnerable populations such as children and pregnant women, who are more susceptible to the harmful effects of lead exposure. When lead concentrations in water exceed this action level, water systems are required to take action to control corrosion, replace lead service lines, and inform the public about the dangers of lead exposure. The significance of this regulation stems from consistent research demonstrating that even low levels of lead can have detrimental effects on human health, necessitating strict oversight and action levels to minimize risks associated with contamination.