AWWA ACE71063

Public concerns are commonly expressed when reports are published about nanogram per liter concentrations of any number of compounds in a wastewater effluent. The public then raises questions about the concentrations and health effects of the multiple chemical compounds detected in the community wastewater. The local utility then must attempt to define potential human health effects from compounds at concentrations several orders of magnitude lower than currently established maximum contaminant levels in the community potable water. This paper examines public perception, as well as the "system" that evaluates risk and establishes maximum contaminant levels and a candidate contaminant list for potable water, but does not address potential health impacts from chronic exposure to low level contaminants. Finally, suggestions are offered to provide education for utility staff faced with providing answers to the public. Includes 21 references, tables.