Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) In Water

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) are a group of chemical substances which includes fuel components, oxygenates (MTBE), fumigants, cleaners, degreasers, solvents and industrial chemicals. These compounds have a variety of chemical and physical properties, but they all tend to evaporate readily, hence the term volatile. The term organic refers to compounds which have carbon atoms as their main building blocks.

In 1987 the U.S.E.P.A. developed guidelines for monitoring VOCs in public drinking water systems and maximum contaminant levels (MCL) - amounts which should not be exceeded - were established. This action was taken to ensure safe drinking water for municipal consumers. Because the national primary drinking water regulations apply only to public water supply systems, owners of private drinking water wells must assume responsibility for protection against VOCs. The EPA encourages such owners to have their water tested by a competent laboratory in cases where the well is potentially vulnerable to contamination.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do VOCs get into the water?

Accidental spills and leaks, improper storage and disposal and runoff all act as contributing sources of these dangerous chemicals. Improper disposal of household waste, particularly used motor oil and cleaning fluids, only makes the problem worse.

VOCs are usually found in groundwater. Because of their volatility, VOCs do not remain in surface water long and they are emitted into the atmosphere. However, most VOCs are very mobile, which enables them to percolate through the ground into wells and aquifers. Once in groundwater, most VOCs do not break down easily and may remain for long periods of time. As a result, both the persistence and mobility of VOCs pose a potentially serious threat to the safety of drinking water

Are VOCs Dangerous?

Yes. If you are exposed to high levels of VOCs in your drinking water you may experience some kind of adverse health effect - among which are an increased risk of cancer and damage to the liver, kidneys, circulatory and nervous systems.

(Excerpts from the EPA booklet, Volatile Organic Chemicals: Are VOCs in Your Drinking Water? August 1989)

Water Analysis For VOCs

Fountain Valley Analytical Lab makes it easy to check your water for volatile chemicals - simply call: (410) 848-1014 or (410) 876-4554 or reach us by email at CWM@fval.com to set up an appointment. One of our state certified water samplers will come to your location and collect a sample of your water. The sample will then be analyzed for both regulated and unregulated VOCs. If any compounds show up in your water, we will provide you with information about those chemicals - what their health effects are and what the best available technology is to treat or remove them.

More information about VOCs may be obtained from your local health department or The Safe Drinking Water Hotline @ 1-800-426-4791.

Routine Water Testing Program

The Routine Water Testing Program at Fountain Valley Analytical Lab is an easy and inexpensive way of keeping track of your water quality.

Simply call: (410) 848-1014 or (410) 876-4554 or email us at CWM@fval.com for more information.

© 2005 Fountain Valley Laboratory, Inc.
Last update January 25, 2006