Nfedifeswow ^wdfe. - Vermonters for a Clean Environment
Transcription
Nfedifeswow ^wdfe. - Vermonters for a Clean Environment
~ocument~ Ix. s o ~gt e m Subject 1 PTKOà prlçllç Date/Time . . . -".. - 34,715 - .--- About message rta* Nicole Shdo - M i - -. - DÇHbMJitlw but not s p i c a a l y about ehIop&rfffreShftakh effefits, I know I sent comments on the original p r e - m d i g thing, but I am sure I copied you. 'I! gat you comments by the "deadline." My cable modem at home needs to be replaced, which may or may not get done over theweekend, but I'll have some review done that can be sent from work next week. -Nfedifeswow ^wdfe.- To: Jonathan Pressman/Cl/USEPA/US@EPA, Audrey Lfiv}ne/DC/USEPA/US@EPA,Hiba Emst/CI/USEPA/US@EPA,Mark Rodgers/CI/USEPA/US@EPA, Anthony Deangelo/RTP/USEPA/US@EPA, Sid Hunter/RTP/USEPA/US@EPA, Michael Narotsky/FiTPNSEPWUS@EPA.Michael WrighUGl/USEPA/US@EPA, Susan RichardmnIATHA)SEPA/US@EPA,Rex Pegram/FtTP/USEPA/US@EPA,Jane Sirnmons/RTP/USEPA/US@EPA,Glenn Rfce/CI/US€PA/US@EP Michael EloviWCI/USEPA/US@EPA,Damn LytlelCl/USEPA/US@EPA.Bruce Mlntz/RTP/USEP#US@EPA, Bill Russo/RTP/USEPA/US@EPA From: Nicole ShaoDCAJSEPNUS Date: 0411012008 07:33AM A, . t a:AngetaD PageCCAJSEPA;US@EPA, ~hrist~&er ~ & ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ / G I / U S E Michael PA/U~EPA, SchocK/CI/USEPA/US@EPA,Maggie LaVay/DC/USEPA/US@EPA, Nick Ashbolt/CI/USEPA/US@EPA, Roy Haught/CI/USEPA/US@EPA,Thomas Speth/CI/USEPA/US@EPA, Patricia Ertc)tSon/CI/USEPA/US@EPA, Gene Stroup/RTP/USEPA/US@EPA, Bob Hetes/RTP/USEP#US@EPA, Valerie BJank/DC/USEPA/US@EPA, DanfelleTillman/DC/USEPA/US@EPA, Lynn Papa/CI/USEPA/US@EPA, MImI Dannel/DC/USEPA/US@EPA Sublet: Please Do Not Send Your Comments Directly to OW - Chloramine Draft Messages ORD Workgroup, As I dearly stated In my 418 e-mail to all of you, please DO NOT send your comments on the Chtoramine Risk Communication Draft Messages directly to the Office of Water Please send your comments directly to me , as 1 am the onewho is preparing ORD 's consolidated comments on this request. It Is important not to send your comments directly to the Office of Water, because ORD needs to present the Program Office with one, consolidated position on these Chloramlne Risk Communication Draft Messages, especially since the responses to these questions are going to be used to educate members from the public. . Many ORD folks from our various laboratories and centers participated in the January workshop and have a lot of expertise to give related to these questions. The reason we provide the Program Office with a consolidated position is so that ORD can convey our comments In a dean, concise, single document, that Is prioritized and easy to understand. When comments are sent individually, ORD loses it's opportunity to remain a united front. It does not allow us to internally prioritize our comments prior to submitting them to the Program Office and weakens or ability to affect change on the issues that matter most to our office. I am aware that some of you have aiready sent your comments directly to h e Office of Water. To those of you who have not sent your comments already ,please send them d i r e to me . Any comments that have already been sent to the Office of Water should be caveated as "individual" comments. These comments DO NOT represent ORD's consolidated comments on the final Chloramine Draft messages. Our office has discussed this issue with the Office of Water already. We appreciate your continued cooperation and support as we come up with one,consolidated position for ORD. OW Soreadsheet of Names If you are receiving this e-mall, your name was listed on a spreadsheet our office recently received from the Office of Water. This spreadsheet lists the names of those individuals who when registering for the January Chloramlnes workshop either expressed interest in the various chloramine questions , or indicated that they had expertise related to the questions. The Office of Water has Indicated that in the past three weeks, they may have contacted those of you listed in the spreadsheet in order to comment on earlier drafts of the messages. If you commented on earlier drafts of the messages ,please send me an e-mail letting me know I need to know how many of you saw or participated In earlier drafts, so that our office can continue to negotiate with the Office of Water an appropriate time frame for our consolidatedreview of these final messages. . limeline As I mentioned in my last e-mail, the Office of Water originallyasked for comments by Monday, April 14th. In response to our push bade on the time frame, the Officeof Water stated that we could submit our consolidated comments no later than Friday, April 18ft.We stHI do not believethat this is sufficient time for us to review and to provide ORD consolidated comments and are continuingto negotiate for an extension. To date, I have only heard back from one person regarding their availability to review the Chloramlne Draft Messages. If you are Interested In reviewing this document ,please send me en e -mail as soon as possible letting me know when you will be able to complete your review by This Is very Important so that w6 can continue to effectively negotiate an extension for our review. I will keep you apprised of any information I receive regarding an extension of our review time. . ; Additional Detail The document we are d & k g Is the one I sent you on 4f8 attached below. It is entitled' "MessagedMapBasic_Outltne_07apr08.doc.* Thank you for your cooperation. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions or comments. Nicole Nicole Shao US €P ORD-Office of Science Policy 1200 PennsylvaniaAvenue, NW (8104R) Washington, DC 20460 (202) 564-6779 -Forwarded by Nicole ShaolDCAJSEPAAJS on 04/090005 09136 AM - Nicole ShadDC/USE PA/US datrida Eri&odCI/USEPA/US (SEPA, Gene StrofUp/RTP/USEPA/US @EPA, Bob Hetes/RTP/USEPA/US@%PA,Valerie BIaak/DC/USEPA/US @EPA, Danielle Tillnian/DC/USEPA/US@ P A - SubjeetReview Requested Chloramine Risk Communication Draft Messages Dear ORD Workgroup, If you are receiving this message, you either registeredfor or attended the ChloranHne Risk Communication Workshop that was held on January 30th at € in DC. This workshop was held to exchange information to help develop key messagesthe Agency can use to communicate on chloramine-related issues. Based on the discussion at the January meeting, OWs contractor has generated draft messages for 30 commonly recieived questions from the public regarding chloramlnes . OW has requestedthat we review and provide comments on the draft messages. In the original request, OW asked for comments by Monday, April 14th. 1 do not believe this is sufficient time for our review and to provide ORD consolidated comments, so I am currently working with OW to get an extension. As soon as possible ,please send me an e -mall letting me know If you ere Interested In reviewing the . attached draft m m e s ,and if so, when you Slink would be able to provide comments by I suggest we try to provide our comments to OW by Tuesday, April 22nd,which is two weeks from today. If this proposed date does not work well for you, please let me know. . The Office of Science Policy wll! send OW ORD '8 consolidated comments Many of you may have already receivedthis review request directly from OW. I ask that you all send your comments back to me and I win consolidateall of our comments . Please do not send your comments directly to OW . Additional Information The 30 key questions and messages will be utilized by ERA to make Q&As and other forms of comrnunicatlon needed on the topic of chforamines, DBPs, lead, and risk trade-offs. The goal of these questions and messages is to have one Agency response prepared to address these chloramine-related questions as they arise in the future. As introduced at the workshop, the messages are presented in the message map format. This means that there are three main key messages in response to each question, and supporting information for these key messages listed below in an outline format. When reviewing the draft messages please keep in mind the following question: 'Are the messages an appropriate EPA Agency response to the questions posed?" Thanks, Nicole Nicole Shao US ERA, ORD-Office of Science Policy 1200,Pennsylvania Avenue, NW (81O4R) Washington, DC 20460 (202) 564-6779 - Forwarded by-NicoleShao/DClUSEPA/US on 04/08/2008 11:I 4 AM Rose KyprianodD C/DSEPA/US Tobathija.aiBbiiia@epa-gov,PageiAngeIad@epa.gov, Russo.Bill @epa.gov,atkins.blaike@qta.gov, Iaselica.bruce@epgov,mintz.brace@epa.gov, lalley.cara@epa.gov,christine@iincominoninsights.com, impelIiaeri.christopher@epa,gov, rodgers-jerildiis.crystal@epa.go$ lytle.darren@epa.gov, bmne.doug@epa.govtdoyle.dizabeth@epa.gov, hubbard.harriet@epa.gov,anst.hiba@epa.gov, downing.jaae@epa.gov,Sinmrons.Jaae@epa.gov, briskin. jeanne@epa.gov, best.jeuniter@epa.gov, bauer.jeremy@epa.gov, ellis.]erty@ep9,gov, bennett.jolinb@epa.gov,piessirtan.jonatnan@epa.gov, Judith@trac.lffi.com, de&ufl.keii@epa.gov, ForrestJEesha@epa.gov,doaa&ue.lisa@epa,gov, lfb9 @cdc.gov, lavay.inags?e@epwv, rodgers.mark@epa.gov,rnshirnldn@mkg.cooi, Mindnip.Mary@qa.gov, mccleUaiid.infflireeai@epa.gov, elovitz.mkhael@epa,gov,lowy.nti(ibael@epa.gov, Wright.Michae3@epa.gov,narotsky.nHchaeI@epa.gov, wuttz.moiiiica@epaigov,aslibolt.nick@epa.govi Shao-Nicole@epa.gov,barr-pamela@epa,gov, fair.pat@epa.gov,oshida.ptut @epa.gov, pegramtrex@?epa,govilieberaaan,richsrd@6pa.gov, rogers.rick@epa.gov,bunis.~obert@epa.gov, kyprianou.rose@epa.gov, haught.roy@epaigov, bahnnaiLsarah@epa.gov,shereen@trackg.coin, Coinerford.Sheni@epa.gov, Hunter.sid@epa.gov, iegkstig@epa.gov, dchatdson.susan@epa,gov, shaw.susap@epa.gov, tanp@riveri3yte.com, speth.thoinas@epa.gov, grubbsttbomas@epa,gov, dea~gelo.a~dwny @epa.gov,hall.patricia@epa.gov, bIank,valerie@epa.gov,blette.vemnica@epa.gov, guilaraii,yu-ting@epa.gov,bain.zeno @tepa.gov cc SubjectchloranUtierisk communication- draft messages Dear Colleague, You are receiving this message because you either registered or attended the Chloramine Risk Communication Workshop on January 30 held at EPA in DC. This workshop was held to exchange information to help develop key messages the Agency could use to communicate on chiommine -related issues. We thank you for your participation and would like to share drafts of the messages that are a result of the workshop. We would Bke to give everyone a chance to see the resultino draft and to comment on the 30 messages at this draft stage so that these messages are as much an Agency product as possible. Particularly helpful will be feedback on the content of the key messages. I.e., are the messages an appropriate EPA Agency response to the questions posed? As introduced to you at the workshop, the mesages will be in a message map format. This means that there are three main key messages in response to each question, and supporting informationfor these key messages is listed below in an outline format. Our hope Is that these key questions and messages will be utilized by EPA to make Q&As and other forms of communication needed on the topic of chloramines, DBPs, lead, and risk trade-offs. Not all possible questions are included in this exercise, but we hope to have gotten 30 of the more important ones. We are asking for feedback by COB Monday, April 14. If you are unable to give feedback by this date but wish to do so, please let me know, After your review, we will work comments in to the draft that will be reviewed by a known risk communication expert. Please consider this draft document Internal. Thank you, Rose [attachment "Message_Map_Basic_Outline_07apr08.doc" deleted by Ntcole Shao/DC/USEPA/US] Rose Kyprianou EPNOffice of WaterIGround Water and Drinking Water Standards and Risk Manaaement Division Phone: (2021-564-6325 Fax: (2021-564-3767 2209~.Mail code: 4607M [attachment "ATTLTQUKnremoved by Michael Schock/CI/USEPA/US] [attachment "497 Expertise list-3.xlsmremoved by Michael Schock/CI/USEPA/US] [attachment uMessageMapTopics-JanlOidocwreremoved by Michael SchocklCllUSEPA/US] Michael Schock/U/USEPA/US Damn Lytie/Cl/USEPAAJS@EPA Jonathan Pressman/U/USEPA/US@EPA Thomas Speth/CI/USEPA/US@EPA I I I Re: Input Requested for Chloramlnes Message Maps Question 19 &4/2q08,0,2:56 - pfi, Nicole Shao About message maps, but not specifically about chioratnine health effects. - Nicole; I agree wfth Jonathan's suggestion that there is a lot more of significance of nitrification to current (and possible future) regulations and "water quality". I'm sony OW does not like the term. Perhaps they would like high school level research done, too,so that It can easily be understood? There are times when there is a single appropriate technical term to use and 1 believe the substitutions can make the meaning technically incorrect, as Jonathan points out. - - My only change from Jonathan's edit would be thatwe should not make his specific to lead release issues. Nitrificationreactions in a biofilm can have oilier impacts on metal release, including both copper and other currently-regulated (at entry points) metals, and from the ORD standpoint, it doesn't matter where the metal comes from if it's there when the consumers him their taps on. The current focusdERA rnonochloramine ~ dishfectantsa{feetwater chemistry wf' € s u ~ ~ o rresearch ts on chanoei uUi'n monocnioramine are used. c is on b dfs/nfectantbyproduct formation as wellas how r -* md viW . inic cor , and n ) that can occur when dislnfe&nts such as . -- . Nicole Shao +- Jonathan, Thanks for your comments. I will seeà 12/24/2008 12:50:00 PM Froma? To; -1 ,. tNicofe Shao/DC/USEPA/US Cc: - Jonathan Pressman/CI/USEPA/US@EPA Ddrtiik.Lyti@/tJ/WEPA/Ug@EPA, Michael Schock/Cf/USEP#USi@EPA, Thomas 'WJ s ~~~~/CUU~EPA/~>$@EPA Date: Subject: ! . r . . 1&24/2008 12:50 PM Re: input Requested for Chloramines Message Maps Question 19 - Jonathan, 7<, ..' .: P-- =::- r" s ,' I. Thanks for your comments. 1 will see what I can do. The people In OGWDW don't get back until next week. I will bring up these things though when I send over my next round pf comments. =myv,  ¥ _ - .-l-.:~l.$-m w - Nkole .WE^ -a :m.. 4 ' Nicole Shao US EPA, ORB-Office of Science Policy 1200 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW (81043) Washington, DC 20460 (202) 564-6779 - - ~onathanPressman - Nicole I just reviewed the attached message m... 6.1- fi Jonathan Pressman/Cl/USEPA/US Nicole Shao/DC/USEPA/US@EPA Damn Lytie/CI/USEPA/US@EPA,Michael SchocWCl/USEPA/LIS@EPA, Thomas Sti&jxt: 12/24/2008 12:10 PM Re: Input Requested for Chlorarnines Message Maps Question 19 . Â¥nn-:l ... -. 8 ,',, .. 7- - - , ,I1 \ -*-I. 12/24/2008 12:10:10 PM - From: Sp@h/CI/USEPA/US@EPA - 4' To: Cc: Date: ' = - -. ' . HE.' - ' . - , ' J . I . . .; : Nicote I just reviewed the attached message map 27,and have the same comments as,a little while ago on Question 19. My primary comment is that these messages only refer to nitritehitrate. Nitrificationcauses several other water quality issues that are not reflected in these message maps. The most Important of which Is biologicalinstabin& and loss of chlorine residual . I would recommend that nitrification has to be in revised map 27, and probablyany other maps that reference nitritehitrate as a result of chloramines. Now,I ditfseie your email:of a few minutes ago that ypu have tried getting nitriftcatton in here and it has been rejected. 1 guess 1 would suggest to try again, as we are currently mapping only partial infohation in this message. If nitrification can get Intothe mainstream media, as it did in last years Corpus Christ; incident, then surely It should be worth having in EPAs message. , , I ' The second comment I would like to make is in reference to the words "water chemistry", which is used exclusively in these messages (at least 19 and 27). Now there is "water chemistrynand '"waterquality", and these messages use "water chemistry" to mean both, but they are not necessarily the same thing. Water quality can encompass water chemistry, but not necessarilythe other way around. For example, Jonathan Mike, I will put forth to OGWDW both of the SUQ... N b l e Shao ,0. Idon'tthinkthattk the same for many iterations and we (ORD) may have provided it to OW to use early on. I think the focus went to nitrate, because nitrates can be especially harmful to infants (as mentioned in map 27)and also because of the effects from nitrification (and any possible subsequent changes to water quality, also mentioned in map 27). I do however agree with you that it Is appropriate to add the word "nitrite"to Question 19, Message 1, Bullet 2, I am also planning on asking OGWDW to reference map 27 in the footnote to this bullet, as map 27 has much more detailed information about the potential changes to water chemistry from monochloramlne use. OGWDW has made reference to other messages as a source for additional information in other questions and I think It would also be appropriate to do it here. .,),:kt a . p l , &L nts sentee I think the map you were probably thinkins about is map 27, where we did provide comments to include nitrite and nitrate. I believe that the comments we provided dramatically improved the messages for this map from earlier versions, making them more scientifically and technically accurate. I am including a copy of the most recent version of map 27 1 have from 12/12/08. I am actually quite pleased with how this map has turned out. The only comment t plan to provide again that 1 did not see incorporated is in footnote 2, sentences 3 and 4. I had previously asked OGWDW to change the order of "nitratelnitrite"to 'nitrite/nItrateMsince pathway-wise 1 thought it would be more technically correct. They made the change in several other places for this message, but not yet in the newer text. Hopefully, you will be pleased with the revised map 27. OGWDW is not looking for major modifications right now as they are trying to wrap up this activity. However, if you do identify any show stopper issues with this map, then please by all means do let me know as soon as practicable. [attachment "Message Map 27 12Dec08 Version .doc" deleted by Nicole Shao/DC/USEPA/US] Thanks, Nicole Nicole Shao US €P ORD-Office of Science Policy 1200 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW (8104R) Washington, DC 20460 (202)564-6779 Michael Schock From: To: cc: lit Nicole; 1 was thinking about the OW proposed la... Michael Schock/Ct/USEPA/US Nicole Shao/DC/USEPMJS@EPA Damn Lytte/CI/USEPA/US@EPA,Thomas SpethEUUSEPAAJS@EPA,Jonathan Pressman/CI/USEPA/US@EPA Date; Subject: 12/23/2008 11:13 AM Re: Input Requested for Chloramlnes Message Maps - Question 19 - I- ~i&$h9_oFrom: To: Gc; Date: Sub- - 1-nand Damn, Mike Schock suggested t... - 12/22(200803;2&:11 PM Nicole Shao/DCAJSEPA/US Jonathan P ~ ~ ~ ~ / ~ E P A / U S @ Barren E PLytle/Cl/&EPA/US@EPA A , Michael SchQCtt/CI/USEPA/US@EPA. Patrids Erickson/CVUSEPA/USgiEPA 12/22/2008 0329 PM Inout Reuuested for Chloramlnes Mesane Maos Question 19 - Jonathan and Darren, Mlke Schock suggested that I contact you to take a quick look at some sentences OGWDW is planning on Including In Question 19 of the ~hloraminesMessage Maps, Question 19 is, "What is EPA's current focus regarding chloramines research? What other ongoing research is EPA aware of?" Mike was saying that he thought the two of you might have additional details you might possibly want to see added regardingthe nitrification and ammonia removal by biological filtration research that you two are working on. The bullets below (and Mike's proposed suggestions) are very broad in nature and thus seem to at least generally encompass the research that is being conducted, so I don't think too many changes ate necessary. However, if you have additional text you would like to see added to the bullets below, please let me know. Currently, Question 19, Message 1 reads: The current focus of € monochlorsm/ne research ison disinfectant byprodact formation as W a s how r dfs!nfectanfsaffect water chemistry. EPA supports research on the unregulated disinfection byproductsformed in drinking water. ERA supports research on lead release and nitrate formation that can occur when disinfectants such as monochloramine are used. Natural organic matter removal technologies, that can reduce byproduct formation, are a priority for future EPA supported research. 1. More information on the EPA Drinking Water Research Program can be found at http://www.epa.gov/ord/n pd/dwresearch-intro.htm . Mike is suggesting the following changes to bullets 2 and 3. EPA supports research on lead release, rtttrtte, and nitrate formation thatcan occur when disinfectants such as monochloramine are used. ' ' Natural organic matter removal technologies, that can reduce byproduct formation, are for future EPA supported research. Are you okay with Mike's proposed changes? Do you have any additional comments on this message? Are there any additional sentences you would tike to see added? Thanks, Nicole Nicote Shao US €P ORDOffice of Science Policy 1200 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW (8104R) Washington, DC 20460 (202) 564-6779 I think Friday would work fine. There is not a deadline that I know of. Nicole Nicole S b o US EPA, ORD-Office of Science Policy 1200 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW ( 8 W R ) Washington, DC 20430 (202) 564-6779 Audrey Levine From: To; Date: Subjea Thanks Nicole-I'll give lt a thorough revlew. Cam.. Audrey LevirieIDClUSEPAkJS Nimk ShaolDCNSEPMUS@EPA W1&2OW 07:l I PM Re: Revlew Requested ChioraminesMessage Maps Draft - Thanks Nicole--I'll give it a thorough review. Can you let me know If there is a deadline? I will plan to haw it finished by Friday--but could try to do it sooner If needed, -----Nicole Shao/DUlUSEPA/USwrote: ---To: Audrey LwindDWSEPNUS@EPA I hew ken working really hard with OGVVDW for the past several months to make sure that the revised dm&of the Chlommines Memge Maps indudes the comments that were provided by the ORD workgmup. Most recent+y,W W D W and I worked m inmpomting the comments mdved from Regions 2,3,6,and 8. We are getting closer to a finai version now and OGWDW asked if I would share this dmfi with you. I haw done my best to make sure that all of the ORD workgr~uplevdcomments were either h y o r p o r ~ , addressed. ,~r blqinly, I would like ta get your Input'mthe tw 1n.Question 1% This questtm hmWhat is EPAPscurrent focus regarding chloratnhes research? What other ongohg research is € aware of?" Both OGWDW and I thought it was really Importantthat before thls docurnent is finalized that you are okay with the text in Question 19. When ym have a chance, please let me h o w if you have any comments on the text in Question 19, or if you have any suggesfions on how the text might be improved. If you have comments on any of the other questions,pleasesend those 10 me as well, It is most irnpomnt however that you focus on QueAon 19 though* I ask that you please do not hare this draft document wlth anyone else. The OR0 workgroup has not yet been given a chance to re-comment on this document. Since we last provided ORD workgroup-level mmmem 519/081the dls~ssionshave been between OGWDW and myself. As I mentioned before, dudng my discussionswith OGWDW the past few mnths, 1 have worked to ensure that all of the previous ORD w o r k p u p l e ~comments have been either incorporated or addressed. Please do no! hesitate ta contact me If you have any questions. Thanks, Nlmle Nicole Shao US €P URD-Ofilce ofScience Poky I200 PennsylvaniaAvenue, NW (a104R) Washington, DC 20460 (202) 5646779 - please Review ~ e v ~ s e~essage c~ MP corn men^ Reflecting Only Major Comments 01/13/2009 i i 4 i m I Processing Audrey, Attached below are the dmft consoiidated comments IVe prepared on the major comments we discussed yesterday. Piease let me know by COB today, 1/13 If you are o h y with the suggested revisions (purple text). The quesuons with cumments are: 2,18,19, and 27. I think I've covered the major show stoppers, but let me know if you hlnk I have hftanything out. I @an to meet with OW tomorrow face-to-face b go over the mmmb. Question 2. Footnote 2 I went back and used OWIS previous text for this footnote and added text on nitrifidon and the release of contaminants such as nitrite, nitrate, and iead into the water, ..' I also added fie text, T m s e microbes while typically not harmful back In (slightly modified). This was in retation to the comments I got from the other ORD redewers (NERL and NRMRL) that stated that they wanted to make sure we didn't indicate in the text that "all biofilms are bad." The sclentlsts mted that for the most part biofilms are innocuous, except in those mses where they harbor and release pathogens. Are you okay witti the way I have-written hiws here? ~ ~ splease e provide , me WMIany alternate sug~estlonsyou might h a w for how we can address his concept. I didn't include the text you had previously added on portions of the bioflh being released from the pipe w a h is this okay, or must we convey his topic? The foatnote is almdy vety lengthy. I think h i s topic is broadly covered under the concept of pipe cornsion and the release of wnlaminants into € water. Nicole Shao US EPAtORD-OVIC~ of Science Pollcy I 200 PennsylvaniaAvenue, NW (8104R) Washington, DC 20460 (202) M - 6 7 7 9 1) What re chloramlne8? Ch/ommhes am didnb&wtts used to tmat drinking warn. Chloramines are most commonly formed when ammonia is added to chlorine to treat drinkhg water. The most typical p u p s e of chloramines is to protect water quality as it moves through pipes. Chloramlnes provide long lasting protec!ion as they do not break down quickly in waiet pipes, The difkmnt type8 of chioramhs are mmochlummim, dMloram~ne,=- - - - - - . . trichlorami~ . . kw When chloratnines are used to &i& drinking mt&~monochloram~ne is the ,, -I most common form. Dichloramlne~~~c~l~~a~~l~e~ areJ?~&Ed -Y!X?!-Ww!! . . drinking water but at much lower levels Man monmhbamlne. - ~richloramines'are typically associated with disinfected water used in swimming pools. 7T?aEnwimnmenM Protection Agmcy r w g u ~ 8 t b ~ safe if88 of ch~omminesin drlnking water* EPA requires water utMies to m e t strict h e a h shndwds when using chiormines to treat water. € chloramines regulations are based on the average concentration of chlomhes found in a water system over time. A~~ Suppfing l n f m a h : I. Trkhlommine h a d o n does nut usually w u t under normal drinking water treatment conditions. However, if fie pH is lowred M o w 4.4 or the chlorine to ammonia-nitrogen ratio h m m greater than 7.6:1, then trich!otamim can form. Tdchlortnaineformation cart occur at a pH betwem 7 and 8 ifthe chlmmine to ammla-nitrogen rado is increas~dto 15:I . Source: OpiYmidng Chtommiw TrwmeM 2M Ediion, A m RF, 2004 2. The drinking water standad for chioramhes is 4 paits Wr millbn (ppm) measured as an annual avarage. More infomatlonon water dlhy use of ~hloraminesis avaikble at h ~ ~ ~ . e ~ a . a o v / ~ f e w t e r / d s i ~ and ~ t iin~the n& fW7-IS8 x ~ l Information Collection Rule, a mtlond survey of l a p drinkliq wakr utilitiesfor the Sbga 2 Disinhc!ion B y p r d m Rule (DBPR). Infomation on h e 2 DBPR is availa&leat htt~dhww. em.wlsafe w a t e r l d l s t n f ~ o d ~ a ~ . More infomation on EPA's shnttard setting p m s s may be found at: rase 3+ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ? ~ ~ ~ formed ~ / asra result n ofWthe u ? breakdown of animal and plant material In the envhonmerd; Source: Delibemiive d d i - do not cite or dish?buk o ~ p u & 2) How long has monochloramine been used as a drinking water disinfectant? How is monochloramine typically used? How many people/water utilities use monochlommine? Monoch/oraminehas been used as a drinking water disinfwtont for more than 90 years1 Monochloraminehas been shown to be an effective disinfectant based on decades of use in the US., Canada, and Britain. Monochloramineis usually used along with chlorine as part of the drinking water treatment process. 8 Monochloramfne helps protect people from waterborne diseases? DMWAd lIm 'l Monochiommine is most often used to maintain water quality in the pipes." Monochloramineprovides long lasting protection of water quality. Monochloramine Is effective as a disinfectant because it does not dissipate as quickly as chlorine. Monochloramine helps lower levels of potentially harmful regulated disinfection ~ h e e ~ (ypteftkynotlnnn&dcan byproducts compared to chlorine. More than one in five Americana use drinking water treat9d with mmochloraminBt Manochloratnine use has increased in recent years due partly to new drink&@ water Teguiationsdeveloped to limit certain disinfection byproducts. New drinking water regulations limitthe conMnttatfon ofpOt@ftTtettyharmful' citetntectka?!bybrfflEluefethat rftay occur EndM r t gwater, a Several t am @@. suoh ah Denverand Philadelphia have been using moftochloramineas part of heir treatment process for decades. - ~ofmteattiBSan(tlhà 1. For more informattonon the hbtory of d@nl@gwater dlstfrfeetion visit- *hy&*sd 2. mayiBproAiceartifofmalMntayar çbtoflhn-hnhptoes MbrobesUw .SMIT)bloNmsam typkaUy harmless. Nowsvar, lhefntaotiealftalgrow In &B pips and form a blofltm on BIB lypewalnmyc 8 F t W k m .* Custom Oolor(R68(10&0,204) Ddatedt increased EtatetMJiornItifflcaBon reactions an IhetBBtiMng[Bteasadwnlamlnarta such as nMrite, rAato, and toad hto firewater. Seeque3tton271or- ktfonnarJmoncontanhanireteBç 'tHOffifiM,and ntofflcatfon. Ata^see Pa~eh . - - - EPft's . Stofilm - .- - - White . . l! I n on new "- ', b' - .. drinking water regul&ons ~ ~ e ~ . a w ~ ~ t w / d s i n ~ i o d i n d '-pww ~ ~ . -. mqaç^iççl^Uffiter * BASIC INFORMATION ABOUT DRINKING WATER D~SINFECTION 3) Why is drinking water disinfected? What is the difference between primary and secondary disinfection? How is monochloramine used in a treatment plant? Drinking water Is disinfectedto protect public health.' Prior to the widespread use of disinfectants, many people became ill or died because of contaminated water. Disinfection reduces or eliminates illnesses acquired through drinking water. EPA and CDC believe the benefits of drinking water disinfection outweigh the potential risks from disinfection byproducts. Primary disinfection kills or Inactivates bacteria, viruses, and other potentially harmful organisms In drlnking water? a Disinfection prevents infectious diseases such as typhoid fever, hepatitis, and 8 1 cholera? Some disinfectants are more effective than others at inactivating certain potentially harmful organisms? Disinfection processes vary from water utility to water utility based on their needs and to meet € treatment requirements. Secondmy d i 8 i n ~ h ~ ~ r o v ! da!n-& 8 .- - - - - - - - - moves through pipes to consumers. Secondary disinfection maintains water quality by killing potentially harmful organisms that may get in water as it mows through pipes. 8 Monochloramlne is commonly used as a secondary disinfectant. Monochloramlne may be more useful than chlorine in killing certain potentiallv harmful organisms In pipes such as those that cause Legionnaire's disease. Addftfonal Supporting Informalion; 1. Not all federally-regulated ground water utilities are required to disinfect their water. Regulatory authorities work with utilities to decide if treatment is necessary. 2. See question 2 for addltlonai history on drinking'water disinfection. 3. Potentially harmful organisms include disease-causingbacteria,viruses, and.pmtozaa. Chlorination and chloraminatton are not effective at inactivating For information on alIemaHve - Ctwtospondiiim. .. . disinfectantsand other oxidants vlaifc 4. For more informationon these infectiousdiseases visit the following webs'rtes: W~wiMdd-Ww u h b m (fortyphoid fever): A ; (for i-fqwfls); html (forcholera). B-AHutilitiesthatofsurfacewatera 99-otreatof v i o f viru Aan to ftofilter their water. However, some 8urface water systems may obtain waivers for filtration if the water comes from a protected source. Surface water systems must also have adetectable disinfectant residual in their distrtoution system. Ground water systems are only requiredto disinfect as necessary and are not required to have a detectable disinfectant residual. Ground water systems that are found to be influenced by surfaca water (for example, wells located next to rivers) are required to foBow the treatment requirements for surface water. In addition, States may have morestringenttreatment requirements and may, for example, require all of their ground water systems to disinfect. For more informationon EPA surface water treatment requirements visit: a d for infmnalimm requimmenls forgwnd water .. . --- S y 8 t e m ~ ~ Deliberative draft - do not cite or distribute 3 4) What disinfectants are available for drinking water? Most water utilities use chlorine as a primary disinfectant because of Its effectiveness in kMng potentially harmful organisms.^ Chlorine is effective in lolling bacteria, viruses,and other potentially harmful organisms in water. One disadvantage of chlorine is it can react with natural organic matte? present in water to form potentially harmful disinfection byproducts. Water utilities sometimes use chlorine several times during treatment because the initial dose loses its effectiveness over time. 1 Monochloramine Is commonly used as a secondary disinfeetan#to protect the waferas ft trawIs from tfw treatmentplant to consumers. - . Meted:' Monochloramlne is effective in killing bacteria, viruses, and other potentially harmful organisms but takes much longer to act than chlorine. One disadvantage of monochloramine is it can react with natural organic matter present in water to form potentially harmful disinfection byproducts. * Monochloramineis more chemically stable than chlorine, which makes it longer lasting and an effective secondary disinfectant. Water ~tilifias may use ozone, UV light, or chlorine dioxide as primary disinfectoinsin tho treatment plant. - Ozone, UV light, and chlorine dioxide are effective in killing bacteria, viruses, and other potentially harmful organisms in water at the treatment plant. One disadvantageof ozone, UV light, and chlorine dioxide is they do not provide 1 protection as water travels through pipes. Elther chlorine or monochloramine must still be treatment process to protect the quality of treatment plant to the customer. I Additional Supporting Information: Sae question 3 for a discussion of primary and secondary disinfectants. See questions 5 and 6 for a specific discussion of chlorine and monochlaramlne as a primmy and secondary disinfectant. 1. Potentially harmful organisms Include disease-causing bacteria, viruses, and protozoa. we at inactivating Cryptosporidium. Chlorination and chlorarninationare not e 2. Natural organic matter is a complex rn re of compoundsformed as a result of the breakdown of animal and plant material in the environment. .. Source: a,ora/tefn~lates/ldtemDfates/tavout 633184.aat~t~bteQld=661579. a? . - . . --.- Delib.erative draft - do not cite or distribute - - . - - -- - - Deleted: 3. Sacofidmy dlalnfecfcn bateofcnownaaudnfladrtifactant 5) How effective Is monochloramine vs. chlorine as a primary disinfectant? Monochlommine can be an effactiveprimary disinfectant In limited situations. Monochloramfnetakes much longer than chlorine to Ml! most potentially harmful organisms.' Monochloramlne can be used as a primary disinfectant but the amount of time needed for treatment makes it impractical for most utilities. But because it Is longer lastingthan chlorine, monochloramine is often used as a secondary disinfectant. Chlorine is a wry efleetive primary disinfectant. Chlorine Is very effective at killing most potentially harmful organisms,' Chlorine kills most potentially harmful organisms quickly. Chlorine is the most frequently used primary disinfectant of drinking water. A combination of disinfectants is often used tor primary diainfeetion. Primary disinfection usually consists of multiple disinfection steps that may start as the water enters the treatment plant. When used as a primary disinfectant, monochloramine effectiveness is Increased by combining it with other disinfectants. The choice of which combination of disinfectants to use varies from water utili to water utility based on their needs and to meet EPA treatment requirements. 2 AddMona/ Supporting Intonnation: See question 3 for a discussion of primary and secondary dlsinfectants. 1. Potentially harmful organisms Include disease-causlng bacteria, viruses, and protozoa. Chlorination and chloraminatton are not eflective at Inactivating CtyptospOndium. 2. All utilities that use surface water are required to treat or remove 95.59% of viruses and also to (litertheir water. However, some surface water systems may obtain waivers for filtration if the water comes from a protected source. Surface water systems must also have a detectable disinfectant residual In their distribution system. Ground water systems are only required to disinfect as necessary and are not required to have a detectable disinfectant residual. Ground water systems that are found to be influenced by surface water (for example, walls located next to rivers) are required to follow the treatment requirements for surface water. In addition, States may have more stringent treatment requirements and may, for example, require all of thair ground water systems to disinfect. For mope information visit: WJW.-Mrn~I~rnenLha and for infomaflon on requiments for ground water systems vlsi 1: . 1 1 Deliberative draft - do not cite or distribute 3 . . ' 6) How effective Is monochloramlne us. chlorine as a secondary disinfectant*? Both chlorine and monochloramine am effectbe secondary dtofnfactants. Both chlorine and monochlorarnine protect the quality of treated water as wate? travels through pipes. Both chlorine and monochlorarnine produce disinfection byproducts, some of which are harmful to human health, EPA and CDC believe the benefits of drinking water disinfection outweigh the potential risks from disinfection byproducts. + <. Monochloramine has several advantages over chlorine as a wcondary dIs/nfectant. Monochloramine is more chemically stable than chlorine. à Monochloramine produces fewer potentially harmful regulated disinfection byproducts than ch~orine.~  Monochloramine is longer lasting than chlorine offering continued disinfection, and making it useful for killing certain harmfulorganisms found in pipes such as those that cause Legionnaires' disease. 77*9 choice of which secondary disinfectantto use varies from water utility to water utility based on their needs, à Regulatory agencies and water utilities work together in selecting primary and secondary disinfectants. Regulatory agencies and water utilities balance a wide range of factors in deciding which disinfectant to use. 4 Either chlorine or monochloramine are used as secondary disinfectants by water ' ' utilities. 1 1 Additional Supporting information: 1. See question 3 for a discussion of primary and secondary disinfectants.^Sea~~&sti~ns. 17 ,..- and 18 for advantages and disadvantages in monochloramlne use. 2. See question 2 for a more information about protectingfha quality of water as it travels through pipes 3-EPA has enforceable regulationsto limit occurrence of disinfection byproducts In drinking water for a group of four total trihalomethanes (TTHMs): (chloroform, bromodichtommethane (BOW), (Sbromochloromethane(OBCM), and bromofonn), a group of five haloacetic adds (HAM) (monochloroacetic acid (MCA), dichloroaoetic acid (DCA), trichtoroacetic acid (TCA), monobromoaceticacid (MBA), and dibrornoacdc acid (DBA)), and the Individual byproducts chlorite and bromate, The maximum contaminant levels for these disinfectionbyproducts are: TTHMs (0.080 m@), H A M (0.060mg/L), chtorlte (1.0 mg/L), bromate (0.010 fng/L), See Stage 2 Disinfection Byproducts Rule (71 FR 388, January 4,2006) for more information on dlshf6dan bypmdmk and dlscussio~~ d unceilalnties,~ J h w w . e m ~ m t r l E P A - W A T E.W . ~ ~ ~ 4. For more informationon Legionnaire's disease visit www.nlm.nih.oov/medline~lus. 5. Factors includethe type and condition of source water, how much water needs to be treated, complexity of operation, etc. Guidance manuals are available at llanee.html. Hard copies are available by r/disinfection/ E FA'SW atet%%%%nter (phone: 202466-1729). !-2; Deliberative draft - do not cite or distribute are also known as residual WATER SYSTEMS, DISINFECTION BYPRODU&TS, AND THE USE OF MONOCHLORAMINE .-.. *. 7 ) Why are disinfectionbyproducts a public health concern? Drinking water research indicates that certain byproducts of water disinfection haw tho potential to to harmful.' a Some research indicates that certain byproducts of water disinfection are linked to increases in cancer incidence, Including bladder cancer. Some research indicates that certain byproductsof water disinfection can be linked to liver, kidney, central nervous system problems, and reproductive effects. Some research indicates that certain byproductsof water disinfectioncan he linked to anemia. ' A8sas~rnentsof the risks of water disinfact!on cpn tie highly uncertain. Scientists from many organizations conduct research on the effects of a disinfection byproducts. In some cases research results are contradictory; some studies show links to adverse health effects and others do not. Regulatory documents describe the uncertainties in risk assessments of disinfection byproducts.' .* 5: ' . 77à Environmentoi Protection Agency considers risk and uncertainty in establishing regulations for water disinfection. Regulators weigh the public health benefits of disinfectionagainst the risks of the potentially hannful disinfection byproducts.' EPA sets limits for certain disinfection byproducts which = are linked to health effects such as bladder cancer.' € and other organizations continue to condud research on disinfection byproducts. Aelditional SupportfngInformation: 1. EPA has enforceable regulations to limit occurrence of disinfection byproducts in drinking water for a group of four total trihalomethanes (TTHMs) (chloroform, bromodtohlofomethane (BDCM), dlbromochloromettiane(OEM), and bromofonn), a grow of five haloacette adds (HAM) (monochloroacetic add (MCA), dkhloroacstic acid (DCA), bichloroacettoacid (TCA), monobromoacetic acid (MBA), and dlbromoacetic add (DM)),and the individual byproducts chlorite and bromate. The maximum contaminant levelsfor these disinfection byproducts are. TTHMs (0.080 m*), HAA5 (0.060 @I.), chtOrtte (1-0 -1, broroate (0.010 ma/L). Sea Stage 2 Disinfection Byproducts Rule (71 FR 388,Januay 4,2006)tor more Information on dislnfmtion byproducts and discussbn ol unceMntbs, WATEFV£OOeOflnuaiv/Daf-O#wQ3.D(rt 2. For more Informationon anemia and disinfection byproductsvisit ov ~ m of how the regulated disinfdon byproducts ~ SBWB a6 Indicators of other disinfection byproducts. Deliberative draft - do not cite or distribute ~ , . ,. 8) How does EPA regulate disinfection byproducts (DBPs)? EPA uses the presence of regulated disinfection byproducts as indicators of the presence of other disinfection byproducts.' EPA sets limits for two individual and two groups of disinfection byproducts ( ~ 6 ~that s )are~linked to health problems. Disinfectants read with natural organic matte? to produce disinfection byproducts, some of which are of health concern. Recent EPA drinking water regulations require water utilities to reduce the concentrations of particular disinfection byproducts.' Watw utIift16s must test water regularly to make sure regulated disinfeet/on byproducts are within EPA limits. € recently strengthened regulatory limits for certain disinfection byproduck2 Regardless of the disinfectant used, the types and concentrations of disinfection byproducts will also vary from day-to-day and among utilities. The concentration and type of disinfectant byproducts depends on many factors, including source water type, water temperature, the levels of natural organic matter In the water as well as the amount and type of disinfectant used. rh  ¥ EPA conducts rosearch to batter understand disinfection byproducts in drinking water. -. € scientists coordinate their research on disinfection byproducts with scientists from many organizations. Scientific studies are focused on identifying disinfection byproducts that may need to be reg~lated.~ ERA scientists and decision makers review regulations of disinfection byproducts every six years to determine If they need to be revised.5 Additional Supporting Information: 1. EPA has enforceable regulations to limit the occurrence of disinfection byproducts in drinking water tor a group of four total trihalomethana (TTHMs) (chloroform, bromodichloromethane (BDCM), dibromochhethme (DBCM),,and bmmdom), a group of five haloacetic acids (HAM) (monochbroacetlcacid (MCA), dichloroacetic add (DCA), trichloroacetic acid (TCA), monobromoacetic add (MBA), and dibromoacetlcacid (DBA)), and the individual byproducts chlorite and bmmate. The maximum contaminant levels for these dlstnfection byproducts are: TTHMs (0.080 m@), HA& (0.060 mg/L), chlorite (1.0 mg/L), bmmate (0.010 mg/L), See Stafgte 2 Diarfection Byproduct6 Rule (71 FR 388, January 4,2006) for more Infomalton on disinfectionbyproducts and discussion of epidemiological data on chiorhated water expo8ure and cancer, w. l T H M s and HAAa typkally mxr at higher levels than other h w disinfectant byproducts. The presence of TTHMs and HAA5 is representative of the occurrence of many other chlorinated disinfectant byproducts;thus, a reduction in TTHMs and HAA5 gaflBrally indicates a reduction of other types of disinfectant bypmducte. 2 TTietwogrouiffiirototdlrlhakMTielhMe~andhdoaceteai^^Thetwoinc^idualOBPsafec^k)^e and bromate. 3. Nature ~ f ~mia w r is a cof~iplexmixture d cmpouiuls formed as a remit of the breakdown of animal and plant material In the environment Source: hftpJ/ww~.iwahq.org/tei~iplata&-teniptatsaflaput_63318~.a8p)(?ObjectJd=661579. 4. See the Contaminant Candidate List online at httDJ/Kww.e~a.aw/OGWDW/ccl/ccB.htrnl for contaminants EPA proposes to review. 5. EPA scientists consider new disinfection byproducts researeti as part of the six year review process, For Information on W dx year revlew proce- Wt:p . - Deliberative draft do not cite or distribute 9) How do the kinds and concentrations of disinfection byproducts formed by monochloraminm compare to those formed by chlorine? Water treated with chlorine and monochloramine contain different types and concentrations of disinfection byproducts. Compared to chlorine, water treated with monochloramine contains fewer regulated disinfection byproducts that have been linked to human health problems. The formation of disinfection byproducts is influenced by source water type and the type of disinfectant used. Formation can vary daily with the amount of natural organic matter in the water, temperature, rainfall, and distance from the treatment plant or other factors influencing water quality. Compared to chlorine, water matod with monochloramine contains lower concentrations of regulated disinfection byprodue&' Compared to chlorine, water treated with monochloramlne contains lower concentrations of the two major types of regulateddisinfectionbyproducts.' Compared to chlorine, water disinfected with monochloramine contains fewer regulated disinfection byproducts linked to bladder cancer. Regardless of the disinfectant used, the types and concentrations of disinfection byproducts will vary from each utility and also from day-today. Compared to chlorine, water treated with rnonochloramlnemay contain higher concentrations of unregulated disinfection byproducts. EPA scientists are currently studying the unregulated disinfection byproducts2 that form in water treated with monochtoramine. Compared to chlorine, water treated with monochloramine may contain different unregulateddisinfection byproducts than chlorinated water. ERA and other organizations continue to conduct research on unregulated disinfection by product^,^ 1 Additional Supporting ~nfomsation: 1. TTHM and HAA5 are the regulated disinfection byproduct groups that form at lower concentrations with monochlorarnine. See question 7 for more information about TTHM and HM5. Sac w ~ l t9 m for mow I ~ r n OW med'ch. u ~ 2. Examples of these unregulated disinfection byproducts include nitrosamines (including nltrosodimethylamlne, NDMA), iodo-trihalomethanas,and iodo-aclds. See question 7 for additional detail on disinfection byproducts. or Deliberative draft - do not rite or distribute 10) Why a n water utilities switching to monochloramine? New € regulations reyuire wa@r utilities to reduce levels of regulated dishfeetlon byproducts. - rib * L',. . Water utilities are req& â‚ comply with EPA's revised regulations. Water utilities are assessing if they need to make changes to comply with revised EPA regulations. To meet the new regulations, a subset of utilities has decided to change their secondary disinfectant from chlorine to monochloramine. Water treatad with monochlorsm/necontains reduced levels of regulated disinfection byproducts compared to water treated with ch/onne.' Monochloramine produces lower concentrations of regulated disinfection byproducts because it is less reactive than chlorine with natural organic matter.3 The formation of disinfection byproducts is influenced by source water type and , . the type of disinfection used. Formation can vary daily with the amount of natural organic material in the water, temperature, rainfall, and distance from the treatment plant or other factors influencing water quality. 1 1 Water utilities switching from chlorine to monochloramine report fewer consumer concerns about water qua/&. Water utilities switching from chlorine to monochloramine report fewer consumer concerns about the taste of water? Water utilities switching from chlorine to monochloramine report fewer consumer concerns about odor* Consumers may still notice a chlorine smell when utilities use monochlorarnine$ Adifisonal SupporSng Informatfotr 1. See Stage 2 Disinfection Byproducts Rule (71 FR 366, January 4,2006) for more Information on disinfection byproducts and discussion of epidemiological data on chlorinated water expowre and cancer, . . ov/ladmstr/EPA-WATER/200B/ilanuarv-M3. odf 2. See question 11 for additional ways utilities could comply. 3. Natural organic matter ts a complex mixture of compounds formed as a result of the breakdown of animal and plant material in the environment; Source: At-t B33184.asDx70biwtlcle861679 4. Ceria I n home drink)nowater treatment systems and tiltere can reduos ffl-dlmfnatechlorinq 29 for m o m soaciftemtiotion about these devices. - - - - - - - - ,B^.È. m - Deliberative draft - do not cite or distribute . II ' l 11) Other than chlorine and monochloramine, what options could water utilities consider to reduce the levels of disinfection byproducts? Water utilities have several options for rodwing disinfeetlon byproducts other than chlorine and monochloramh> I 1 One option for reducin disinfection byproducts is to reduce the amount of time water spends in pipes, - - - - - - - - - - - - . - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - . - - - - - - - - - - - - - One option for reducing disinfection byproducts is to use ozone or ultraviolet (UV) 3 The options for reducing disinfection byproducts have disadvantages. Better system management to reduce the amounf of time water spends in pipes &r-imp")v@- filtration-pthgds-qay #I! ~. G, $ g p u g h J g j g y #!e&Med- byproduct levels. Ozone, UV and some improved filtration processes require a high level of sophistication, expertise, and management skills to operate successfully. One disadvantage of ozone and ultraviolet (UV)light is they require the installation of new and expensive technology, making It impractical for many utilities. Utilities must still w e chlorine or monochloramlne to protect drinking water from harmful organisms in pipes. The major disinfection alternatives to chlorine and monochloramine can reduce the formation of some disinfection byproducts but can increase the production of others, The major treatment alternatives for reducing disinfection byproducts do not by themselves provide adequate protection for drinking water as it moves through water pipes. ider a full-range of alternative ERA is encouraging water utl technologies and operational Addttiwal Supporting /nformath .. as a result d the breakdown of animal and plant material !n the environment. Source: Deliberative draft -do not cite or distribute 12) Does EPA require water utilities to use monochtorarnlne? Who approves the decision for a water utilhy to use monochloramlne? Each water utility chooses #a most effect!^ approach for disinfecting water and meeting regulatbns.' Water utilities work with regulatory agencies in deciding the best to meet ERA regulations Water utilities work with regulatory agencies in deciding the best way to reduce or eliminate harmful disinfection byproducts. Warier utilities work with regulatory agencies in deciding whether to use monochloramine. way I, € does not require water utilities to use monochloramine. EPA doe's require water utilities to comply with EPA drinking water regulations. EPA's Regional Offices provide technical assistance to water utilities for complying with EPA drinking water regulations. ERA works with regulatory agencies regarding EPA drinking water regulations. Water utilities typically receive approval from a state agencyt or other authority for changes In disinfection processes. @ Water utilities work with regulatory agencies to weigh the advantages and disadvantages of using monochloramine or other disinfectants. J Water utilities typically notify customers of plans 10 use monochloramine. Contact your water utility for information about disinfection practices used to treat -' your water. J .., * I - - Additional Supporting Information: 1L - ------------------G Y ~f l a J w~@ ? -~d!&k-G ~ - -- - - - ~ ~, p i e are s available by httc.fflKHw.e~a .aov/saf m & r / ~ f d o n / & a e ~ 6Hard ordering publications through EPA's Water Resource Center (phone: 202-566-1729). A - Deliberative drafl do not (ateor distribute --- w - r - . 1 . - 13) What asdstance does EPA provide water utilities considering a switch from chlorine to monochtoramlne? € provides regulatory guidance for water authoritiesconsidering a switch to monochloramlne. € provides regulatory guidance primarily through state regulatory agencies,' which in turn provide guidance to water utilities. a Water utilities look primarily to state agencies for guidance since it is typically these agencies that approve changes in water treatment processes. a Water utilities provide detailed informationabout drinking water quality to interested parties on request, EPA provides training for state and local water authofitigs considering changes in tfisinfactionp m c ~ ~ ~ . ERA develops guidance documents to help state and local water authorities better understand drinking water regulations. € works with state and local water authorities when they request additional guidance regarding EPA drinking water regulations. 0 EPA manuals on water treatment and disinfection processes are available as printed documents or through theinternet. EPA representatives attend prof688ional mattlngs to explain regulations regarding chlorine, monochloramine, and other disinfectants. € provides specialized training on new disinfection byproduct regulation. EPA's Regional Offices provide technical assistance to water authorities seeking specific guidance on the new disinfection byproduct regulations. EPA has established a Drinking Water Academy for EPA staff, state regulators, tribes, and others on implementing new drinking water regulation^.^ Additional Supporting Information: 1. A primacy agency has the primary responsibilityfor administrating and enforcing regulations. Under the Safe Drinking Water Act; states, US. territories, and Indian tribes that meet certain requirements (such as setting regulations that are at least as stringent as EPA's) may apply for. and receive, primary enforcement authority 2. Guidance manuals are available af htt~;//www.e~a,fl~v/safewater/dlsinfection/staae2/com~1 tance.nm1. HiiiciSpfeg afe available by ordering publications through EPA's Water Resource Center (phone: 202-566-1729). Nitrite/Nltrateand lead control when changing disinfectants are discussed In EPA's simultaneous compliance manual which can be found at: i uttaneousOther gutdance is wallable through the American Water Woks Assoclatlm (httDJ/www.awwa.om) and the American Water Works Research Foundation (httD://www.awwarf.oro). See question 27 for additional information on lead and nitritdnitrate. 3. Information on the Drinking Water Academy is available at hm://www.eoa,aov/oawdw/dwa.html. ' m, Deliberative draft - do not cite or distribute CHLORAMINES-RELATED RESEARCH 14) How did EPA evaluate the safety of monochloramine for use as a drinking water disinfectant? .,,,\ h'.. I 1 ,",. EPA evaluated monochloramlneprimarily through an analysis of human health and animal data. Research reviewed in EPA's safety analysis is contained in EPA's "Drinking Water Criteria Document for Chloramines' The criteria document for monochloramine provides a complete summary of health and other data considered in establishinga manochloramine standard. EPA periodically updates the monochloramine "criteria document." EPA's monuch/ommlne standard ie set at a level where no human health effects are expectad to occur. Data from animal and human studies provide information on the health effects of monochloramine. EPA reviews and considers new research results as they become available? EPA's standard for monochloramine takes data gaps and uncertainty into account by building safety factors into the regulatory standard. 4 EPA reviewed historical data in its evaluation of mmochloramine. Monochloramlne has been in use as a drinking water disinfectant since the 1930's.' Decades of use In the US, Canada, and Great Britain shows monochloramlne is an effective secondary drinking water disinfectant. Denver, Philadelphia, and other large cities have used rnonochtoramine as part of their water treatment process for years. L L Additional Supporting Informa tion: 1. The Drinking Water Criteria Document for Chtoraminescan be found at htto:/~ c h ~ ~ r a m i n . e. /.Ddl~Publication c h No.: b ECAO-CIN~ D002.March. 1994. 2. he ~aximumResidual Disinfectant Level Goal (MRDLG) for ctttoramines is 4 parts per million (ppm). 3. S m the Contmlnant Candidate List online at ~ D ~ I ~ . ~ D ~ . u o v / Q for G W M / ~ G ~ contaminants € proposes to review. € scientists review regulations of disinfectants and disinfection byproducts every six years. For information on six year review visit: Attp://epa.gov/safewater/revfew. html 4 Cleveland, OH, Sptlngfteld, IL, and Lansing, MI were among the first cittes to use monochioramin8 In 1929 (seeChapter 1 of The Quest for Puie Water Vof H, A W A , 1981). Deliberative draft- do not cite or distribute 15) Why does € believe enough research has been conducted to approve the use of monochloremine as a drinking water disinfectant? € U M S risk assessment methods to evaiuato the safety of drinking water disinfectants. €P Drinking Water Criteria Document for ~hloiwn~nes' provides the detailed risk assessment process followed in setting the standard for monochtoramine~ EPA's risk assessment process included a review of available research and historical data. EPA's risk assessment process focused on health outcomes scientists consider most critical. EPA8swulations account for uncertainties in the risk assessment by applying uncarfahty factod Risk assessments of monochloramine contain substantial uncertainties regarding potentially harmful disinfection byproducts. 4 Federal taws require EPA to act to protect human health even when there is Incomplete Information. Regulators must weigh the public health benefits of disinfection against the risks of the harmful disinfection byproducts. Research and exper!ence Indicate monocrtloramineis safe at lewis used to treat drinking water. rn Research indicates monochtoramine produces lower levels of regulated disinfection byproducts which may be harmful. Monochloramine use may reduce the potential cancer risk from chlorinated byproducts. EPA continues to encourage research on the safety of monochloramine as a drinking water disinfectant. Additional Supporting Information: 1. The Dfinldna " Water C&&a Document for Chiownines can be found at ECAO-CIN-D002, March, 1994. 2. The-chloramine limit was set in the Stage s avaifabla at . " 1 DB? Rule. This rule I ~Avww.e~a.aov/safewater/dlsinfectjon/Jndex.html. In addition, € has enforceable reoulations to limit occurrence of disinfection bvoroducts in drinldna water for a amup - . of four total trihatomethanes (TTHMs) (chloroform, bkkdlchloromethane(BDCM), dtbromochioromethane (DBCM), and bmmofom), a group of five haloacetic acids (HAA5) (monochloroacetic acid (MCA), dtohloroacetic add (DCA), trfehlomacettoacid VCA), monobromoacetic add (MBA), and dibromoacetfc add (DM)), and the individual byproducts chlorite and bromate. The maximum contaminant levels forthese disinfection byproducts are: TTHMs (0.080 mg/L), HAA5 (0.060 mg/L), chlortte (1.0 m&), bromate (0.010 mg/L). See Stage 2 DisinfectionByproducts Rule (71 FR 388,Januafy 4,2006) for more information on disinfection byproducts and discussion of uncertainties, Deliberative draft - do not cite or distribute 16) Why does € believe monochloramine la safe and appropriate to use? Research and ~xper/ance indicate monochloramine use at regulated levels is a safe means for disinfecting drinking water. Research indicates monochloramine produces lower levels of regulated disinfection byproducts compared to chlorine. Decades of use In the U.S., Canada, and Great Britain shows monochlorarnine is a safe and effective secondary drinking water disinfectantt - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - EPA continues researching the safety of monochloramine and other drinking water disinfectants. € nsad accepted risk assessment methods to evaluate the safety of monochloramfne. €?A risk assessment process Included a review of available research and historical data. - - -f oetatodt - EPA's Drinking Water Criteria Document for Chlorewntne81~[oy~d~sjhg_d%tg!~d- - , risk assessment process the Agency followed In setting the standard for - monochloramine~ EPA's risk assessment process focused on health outcomes scientists considered most critical. < EPA's regulatory standard for chloraminesprovides a wide margin of safe&& - - offset uncertainties In risk as#e&sments. . Rfsk assessments d rnonochloramine contain uncertainties regarding potentially harmful disinfection byproducts. Federal laws require ERA to take action to protect human health even when there is incomplete Infomation. ERA regulatory officials must weigh the public health benefits of disinfection against the uncertain risks of the harmful disinfection byproducts. Additional Supporting Information: Deliberative &aft - do not cite Or distribute -.--- --@at~dt*__ , . - 17) What does EPA see as the advantages of using monochlorarnine? U s h q monochloramine allows utilitk to meet new EPA drinking water regulations. Water utilities are required to comply with EPA's new drinking water regulations to reduce disinfection byproduck. Water utilities are assessing whether to switch to rnonochloramine use as a way to meet new € drinking water regulations, To meet the new EPA regulations, a subset of utilities has decided to use monochloramine as a secondary disinfectant.' Water Meted with moimchlommine contains reduced W S of regulated disinfoetlon byproducts compared to mtor (Teafed with chlorine. Monachtoramine produces lower concentrations of regulated disinfection byproducts because it is less reactive than chlorine with natural organic matter? The formation of disinfection byproducts Is influenced by source water type and a the type of disinfection used. The formation of disinfection byproducts can vary daity with the amount of natural organic matter in the water, temperature, rainfall, distance from the treatment plant, and other factors, 1 Monochtoramine is a practical and effoctfmsecondarydisinfectantJhe ysg of. - -- . + monochlorarnine is often more affordable and requires less new equipment than alternatives1,especially I f a water utility is already using chlortne. Monochtoramine helps protect drinking water quality as it moves through pipes. Several large cities such as Denver and Philadelphia have used monochloramine successfully as part of their water treatment process for decades. Additional Supporting Information: 1. See question 11 for additional ways utilities coutd comply. 2, See Stage 2 Disinfection Byproducts Rule (71 PR 388, January 4,2006) for more information on disinfection byproducts and discussion of epidemiological data on chlorinated water exposure and mar,~ m : l M . ~ m v M m W E P ~ J - D & M , ~ . 3. Natural organic matter is a complex mixture of compoundsformad as a result ofthe Deliberative draft - do not cite or distribute 18) What does EPA see as the disadvantages of using monochloramtne? Water ~til/tIBSwill need to woric closely with local and state regulatory agencies to determine if monochloramlne is appropriate for their ut/ifty. The appropriateness of monochloramine use varies with water types and among water utilities.' The appropfiateness of monochlommine use varies with the amount of organic matter in the source water, temperature, rainfall, distance from the treatment plant, and other factors. ERA guidance is available to help states and water utilities make informed decisions as to whether moaa~i'amineuse is appropriate. a Gaps in research on how monochloramh?eaffects water need to be Riled. There are few studies on how monochloramine affects human health. 4 There ate few studies on the disinfection byproducts that form when monochloramine reacts with natural organic matter in water. Compared to chlorine, water treated with monochlora~inemay contain higher concentrations of unregulated disinfection byproducts. Util/tlea will need to monitor water quailif forproblems that may arise related to monochloramlne use. a Utilities will need to monitor for lead and other regulated contaminants from metal corrosion that may be caused by monochloramine use. 0 Water utilities that add substances to control for metal corrosion will need to comply with all relevant regulations related to these substances. Water utilities using monoGhloramine will need to monitor and control f o 1 ~ an'tlulhi and nftritleatt indudti ftia reddind .nitrite __Initrate fOTmiiftdn. 1 We m u w ~ d Additional Suwrtfng information: 1. Use of monochloramlne with source watare with high bromide, high iodide or high total organic matter may lead to bromo-, lodo-, and nitmamine disinfection byproduct formation which are unregulated. EPA scientists are currently studying the unregulateddisinfection byproducts that form in water treated witti monochloramine. See Question 7 tor additional information about disinfection byproducts. Dçtetad a En accordance with ERA ouManca -r ~eted:changestiwter such t 2,Ihe~d~i~sn-of-moncchlpram~ne t^rnake.weW ~EP-CQ~M!V-&~& ma~!wd!Q~W - - - ~5 corrosion and increased levels of lead or other contaminants In the water. However, utilities can test water for m s i v e n e s s and make changes to the water treatment process to address this problem. € requires that systems monitor lead and copper levels In the distribution system under the Lead and Copper Rule. Monitoring for other water quality issues are discussed in guidance manuals. Guidance manuals are available at: h I on/ Hard copias am availabla - . h . ~corn 1 r n e L on/ n W S ~ % DWS Us- ' ~ m i ~ w,g&yg) and the Amerlmn Water Works Research Foundatlon ~ ~ , w w m!w>!s+#-njtEt$ : ~ ~ . in be es~ecia~b_~a.mfLil to infants;. - - . additional health effect lnfontiafon can be founu 3. See quesliol ntf" " -ma&cmm . . EtaltBiLand ,' - --------- , ' o -2 n -mmnt~e~t,i~ ~ t a ~ owaterquwdtange d: monochtoiamk~. w.cmma=ntbtofflms,andnHitffcaSon ........"~eã-__----,__ãÑÑÑÑ,.ã----.---+---~--,+-È-ÑÑÃ(Mated:q Deliberative draft - do not cite or distribute 1 18 - Metad;! t dwww 1 Mated: s (phone: 202-566-172Q)*EPNs simultaneous compliance manual . can be found at: - - 'todihfioh ~il~tad:~tttrittt- 4 4 .1\ a~ x c e , W % & O ~:- - I 19) What Is EPA's current focus regarding chloramlnes research*?What other ongoing research is EPA aware of? *.- . . 7'he cumnt focus of E P A @ ~ l q ~ i q g ip p ~ m i w m aWntd , d h f s un wnfw audiW, e n d , - m formaw . - - - .. .- . . m@.@w - rmfuct -: ------+----- . - .... Determininu disinfectant effectiveness, includina evaluattna the effectiveness of chloramines at controlllna potentiallyharmful organisms' underdifferent source water and ireatmen! o~tionsis a hiah ~rioritvfor EPA,.- .. . . .- - . . Research is targeted at im~rwinaunderstandlno of the effects of disinfectants on water quality, emeraha contaminants, and the disinfection byproducts that form as a result of individual or combined disinfection ~ractices. . ... , j : kirinkina waler, biotilm activity. Includina nitrification and the resultha nitrite and $itrate,formation that can occur when disinfectants such as m~nochloramineare I ': Results from past and ongoing research indicate monochlur8mim use at mgulated levels is a safe mean8 for dis/nfee#ng drinking water. e Several large cities such as Denver and ~hjadel~hiahave used monochioratnine [a,dwlM successfully as part of their water treatment pmbess for decades. , Ddetfldt n I t Research shows that monochloramine producesfewer potentially harmful \ (tdetodi a t u f t i t w inttflBr i~i~a~t~hnokigies.thato~n regulated disinfection byproducts than chlorine.*- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -ERA reviews and considers new research results as they become available.^-A %.'.', reducebyproductfonnafion,areft itortty tofhitumEpAsupnoinid ' \4 ! LÇ-, ti*, ', elated^ areas related to ~ht use of ' Many organisationssupport research on the safety of monochlorarnine use. ' rntinochbremina as a drinking water Academic institutions and water industry groups conduct research on monochhaf~iineuse6 - - - - - - - - - - - - - .- - - - - - - - - - - . - - - - - - - . CDC has investigated community concerns related to monochloramine EPA will continue to work with other organizations on research related use of monochtoramine. 'Â¥/ 1 ' 1' - l, Additional Supporting Information: 1. More information on the EPA Drinking Water Research Program can be found at htta://m.BDa.oov/or(i/nod/d~r~sean;h-intro. htm. - 1 4;_Cornpared to chlorine, water treated with monochloramine may contain different unregulated disinfection byproductsthan chlorinated water. There are few studies on health effects of unregulated disinfection byproducts. For example, TTHMs and HAAs (see question 6 for more Infomation) tplcally m u r at h b h r lwels than other k n m and unknown d i s i n f e 4 ~ . . . -I! byproducts. The presence of TTHMs and H A M 1s represerrtativeof the occurrence of many other chlorinated dlsinfecm bypmduyts;thus, a red"@on Indicates a reduction of other types of disinfectant byprodu ed withchloraminatton. NDMA, can be found at {I . - . . 21 Deliberative draft - do not cite or distribute 19 - ' -- 1 - Deliberative draft do not cite or distribute COMMON HEALTH QUESTIONS RELATED TO MONOCHLORAMINE 'I1 - 20) la it safe to drink and cook with chloraminated water? 15.- Chloraminated water that meets € regulatory standards is safe to use for drinking and cooking. EPKS ~rinkingwater Criteria Document for Chlofamlnesprovides the detailed risk assessment process followed in setting the standard for monochloramlne. Health authorities recognize that some people may have chemical sensitivities and some people may have a chemical sensitivity to monochlo~amine.~ People who have health concerns about monochloramine use should consult their physicians. € regulations limit chioramind use to levels wtwe no adverse health effects are antidpated.' a EPA's Drinking Water Criteria Document for Chiornines provides the detailed risk assessment process followed in setting the standard for monoch~orarnlne,~ ERA'S risk assessment process included a review of available research and historical data. a EPA's risk assessment process focused on health outcomes scientists consider most critical. Special populations, such as people with weak immune systems, should check with their physicians before consuming any type of drinking water. Special populations with potentially weak immune systems include transplant patients and people with AIDS. People with weak immune s terns can be more susceptible than others to harmful organisms In water.Y= à People who have weakened immune systems should consult with their physicians regarding any type of drinking water they consume, including bottled water.5 AddiSonal Suppoftlq Infomtion: 1. The "Drinking Water Crtteda Document for Chiormines"can be found at . , ECAO-CIN-D002, March. 1094m w d smsilfvity. CDC invesilg&ed reports of monochlomlneand health effects in Vermont but they were unable to draw any conclusions from the Investigation. 3. The chloramines limit was set In tho Stage - 1 DBP Rule. This rule is available at ~ J / w . ~ In &dJtion,w EPA has enforceme ~ .mgulahw to hmR occurrence of disinfectionbyproducts in drinking water for a QFOUD of four total trihalomethanea fTTHM81 (chloroform, bmrnaikhtor~methane (BDCM), dibromoctitommetfiana(DBCM). and bromofom):a group of five hatoacetic adds (HAA5)(monochloroacstic wid (MCA), (iichkroacak add (DCA), trichtoroacetic add (TCA), rnonobrumoaceticadd (MBA),and dibromoaceBc add (DM)), and the individualbyproducts chlorite and bromate. The maximum contaminant levels for these (feinfectionbyproducts are. TTHMs (0.080 mg/L), W 5 (0.060 mg/L), chlorite (1-0 mfl/L), bromate (0-010 ITO/L). See Stage 2 Disinfection ByproductsRub (71 FR 380, January 4,2006) for more information on disinfectionbyproducts and d'kussimoi uncertainttes, m - & p A W A 4. Wantially harmful organlm include dlm -b ie a rc t and chloramination are not affective at inactivating Cryptosporidiwn. 5. More information regarding drinking water for those with weak immune systems is available at: h P . Deliberative draft - do not cite or distribute 21) Can I shower in or use a humidifier with chloraminated water? Chloraminated water that meets € standards is safe to use for showerhg. Showering with chlorarnlnated water poses little risk because monochlbramine does not easily enter the air. . a ~richloramine',a chemical related to monochloramine and oftenfound in swimming pools, enters the air more easily and has been linked to breathing problems. Trichloramine may form more easily in swimming pools because of higher levels of chlorine as we! as ammonia from bodily fluids which are often found in swimming pools. 1 ChiorarninatecS water that meets € standards Is safe for use in humidifiers. The use of chloramlnated water In humidifiers poses little risk because monochloramine does not easily enter the air. a € i s not aware of any studies that investigatethe use of disinfected water in humidifiers. It is important to follow manufacturer's instructions regarding proper maintenance and operation of your humidifier. € considered a wide range of hou~6ho/duse# in establishing regulatoryiimita for chioraminas in water. ERA considered alt available research in establishing regulatory limits for chtoramines in water? EPA considered historical data in establishing regulatory limits for chloramines In water. EPA's regulatory standard for chloramirps provides a wide margin of safety4to offset uncertainties in risk assessments, Additional Supporting Intonnation: 1. Trichloramine formation does not usually occur under normal drinking water treatment conditions. However, if the pH is lowered below 4.4 or the chlorine to ammonia-nitrogen ratio becomes greater than 7.6:1, then trichloramine can form. Trichlormaine formation can occur at a pH between 7 and 8 tf the chloramlne to ammonia-nltmgm ratio is increased to 151. Source: Optimizing Chiommine Treatment, 2"'*Edition, AwwaHF, 2004. 2, Problems with tfichloramine have been most-often associated with indoor swimming pools and are known to cause a strong chlorine-type odor. Tricliloramine can be controlled in indoor swimming pools with proper pool maintenance and ventilation. For more information see: Deliberative draft - do not (ate or distribute kt -- ,. 22) Can chloraminated or chlorinated water be used for dialysis or in an aquarium? Chloraminated or chlorinated water may need additions)treatment if used for specialized purposes. Water utilities typically provide health care agencies and organizations with information about their disinfection processes. Water utilities typically provide consumers with information about disinfection processes. Water utilities consult with regulatory authorities about major changes in their water treatment processes. Chlorine and monochloramine must be removed prior to use in kidney dialysis machines.' Special precautions are needed when using chlorinated or chtoraminatedwater in dialysis machines because the treated waiter comes into direct contact with blood. Dialysis patients should consult with their physicians if they have concerns about chlorinated or chloraminated water. Dialysis patients can safely drink chlorinated or chloraminated waterz Chlorine and monochloramine must be ne£rfra/ize or removed if used in aquariums. a Chlorine and monochloraminecan be harmful to fish because it directly enters their bloodstream through the gills. Chlorine and monochloramine can also prevent the growth of beneficial bacteria that are necessary for healthy fish tanksChlorinated and chloraminated water can be safely used in aquariums by using products readily available from aquarium supply stores. Additional Suppofting Information: 1. A 1988 FDA Safety Alert on chloramines and dialysis ts available at: hfl~;//www.fda.aov/cdrhisaf etviO21988-chloramine.Ddf. 2. Dialysis patientswith severely compromised immune systems should consult with their physician before consuming any type of water. Deliberative draft - do not cite or distribute 23)Does monochloraimlnecause cancer? € believes water disinfected with monochloramine that meets regulatory standards poses no known or anticipated adverse health effects, including 8 canow. Most of the research on the cancer risk of monochtoramine comes from animal studies using mice and rats.' EPA believes available data support the use of monochioramine to protect public health EPA's regulatory standard for chloramines provides a wide margin of safetf to offset uncertainties in risk assessments. fSqnochio~mtneuse may reduce b@ddercmcqrrigcompare to chloflne use. Several sGdies have shown lower rates of bladder cancer in &systems that use monochloramine as a secondary disinfectant culnualuu lu systems that use chlorine.' Compared to chlorine, water treated with monochloramine may contain higher concentrations of unreguiateofdisinfection byproducts but the cancer risk is unknown? EPA continues to support research on the safety of monochloramine. - Monocftloram/naurn produces lower levels ofregulated disinfection byproducts which are linked to cancer. Regulated disinfectionbyproducts are produced In tower amounts when mochloramtne is used. ftegulateddisinfection byproducts serve as indicators4of other types of byproducts that may also be reduced as a result of using monochloramine, Compared to chlorine, water treated with monochlorarnine may contain higher concentrations of unmguhtecf disinfection byproducts? A(hS/;'onalSuppwtfng Information: 1. Mom information on these studies can be found at EPA IRIS (Integrated Risk Information b in the Stage 2 DBPR (71 FR 388, System) htto;//www.e Jmuaty 4, m6) or, tp-rnfnB, 1 are applied to risk assessments to provide a wide margin of safety see: http://apa.gov/rlsk/do8e-response.htni 3. EPA Is currently remamhlrtg ~mgukiteddisinfectantbyprodm that can form mnochlomlne use. Compared lo chtorine, water treated with monochtoraminemay contain different unregulated disinfection byproducts than chlorinatedwater. There are few studies on health effects of unregulated disinfection byprod a 1fil n m m AteoseeQuestionQand TTHMs and HAAs (see question 6 for more lnformatfon)typically occur at higher levels than other known and unknown disinfectant byproducts, The presence of TTHMs and HAM is representativeof the occurrence of many other chlorinated disinfectant byproducts; thus, a reduction In TTHMs and HAA5 generally indicates a reduction of other types of disinfectant byproducts. 4. - Deliberative draft do not cite or distribute -- A I 24) Does monochloramine cause skin problems? € befiewet?water disinfected with monochloramine that meets regulatory standards has no known or anticipated adverse health effects, including skin problems. à Isolated cases of skin problems due to exposure to chloramines have been reported.' Monochloramine has not been shown to be a cause or contributor to reported skin problems. CDC's investigation2of reports of monochloramine-reiated skin problems associated with drinking water use was unable to draw any conclusions about monochloramine and health effects. Trichlormine, a chemical related to monochloramine that often forms in swimming pools, has been linked to skin problems. a Trichloramine forms in swimming pools When chlorine reacts with ammonia from bodily fuilds. Skin problems traceable to disinfected water are typically related to swimming pool useh3 à ERA continues to study and review research on disinfectants used in swimming pools. People who believe their skins problems are related to monochloramfne should consult with their doctors. Sta'n problems are a common health issue, and it is often difficult to trace their causes. People who have skin problems should inform their doctors if they have been in a swimming pool. CDC1sinvestigation2of reports of monochlommine-related skin problems associated with drinking water use was unable to draw any conclusions about monochtoramine and health effects. Additional Supputting Information: 1. Reported skin problems, such as eczema, due to chlorarnlnes are primarily associated with dermal antiseptic contact in occupational/hospital settings. The "DrinkingWater Criteria Document for Chloramimsacan be found at 1 tffl~' w/nc aterhhloramln , ECAO-CIN-D002, March, I d%%=as m%$zatlm on i%tazEisaideMs. See quwlion I for a discussion of the different types of chloramines. 2. CDC and EPA conducted a preliminary investigation of reports of monochloramine-related skin problems associated with drinkha water. The Investigation consisted of a questionnaire @e information cplJecledcan filled out by ..be used to help design rmre epiaerntoiogic sluaies. - .- - . ' CDC'strip report can be found at Ih #nWm Chlomhes mmrt O l l f W R . ~ d f 3. Improper pod maintenance can often lead to trichloramine formation. Some examples include: ~ . c d c , a w / n j W dndfd3lU7-0~ and ~./flffiaiSS~.awhmwR/PDF/^ Deliberative draft - do sot cite or distribute @- 25) Do chloraminea cause breathing problems? EPA believes water disinfeetad with monochloramine that meets regulatory . standards has no known or antidpated adverse health offsets,including breathing problems. Monochloramlnedoes not enter the air easily and therefore would be difficult to inhale. CDC's investlgatlon' of reports of monochloramine-related breathing problems associated with drinking water use was unable to draw any conclusions about monochloramine and health effects. a Breathing problems associated with trichloramine and indoor swimming pools have been reported. ~richforamind,a chemical related to monochloramine and often found In swimming pools, has been linked to breathing problems. \. - ,. ,. Trichloramine forms in swimming pools when chlorine reacts with ammonia from bodily fluids. Breathing problems traceable to disinfected water are typically related to swimming pool use! ERA continues review research related to the use of disinfectants used in swimming pools. People who be/hve their bmathing problems are related to monochlora~n/ne should consult with their doctors. The causes of breathing problems are oftendifficult to determine. People who have breathing problems should inform their doctors if they have spent time in or around a swimming pool. CDC's investigation1of reports of monochloramine-relatedbreathing problems associated with drinking water use was unable to draw any conclusions about monochtofamlne and health effects. Additional Supporting Information: 1. CDC and EPA conducted a preliminary investigation of reports of monochloramine-related respiratory problems associated with drinking wafer. The investigationconsisted of a questionnaire filled out by complaintants. The informationcollected can be used to help design future epidemlolo~icstudies. CDC's trip report can be found at:;,,* , -, . - --* .., ., M a = : i:lZ:n5' household chemicals (mixing ammonia and bleach cleaning products), Indoor swimming pool air, or Industrial exposure. See question 1 for further information about different types of chtoramines. 3. Trichtoramtneformation does not usuaily occur under normal drinking water treatment conditions. However, if the pH te lowered below 4.4 or the chlorine to ammonia-nitrogen (afo becomes greater than 7.6:1, then tiichtorainine can form. Trichlonnaineformation can occur at a pH between 7 and 8 If the chloramlne to ammonia-nitrogen ratio is increased to I @ . Source: -. OpftTrtdhg Chloramlne Treatment,2*"1 Edition, AwwaRF, 2004, 4. Improper pool maintenance can often lead to trichloramlne formation: Some examples - Deliberative draft do not cite or distribute 26) Does monochtoramiiw cause digestive problems? € beltovos water disinfeCtBff with monochloramine that meats regulatory standards has no known or anticipated adverse health effects. Inchding digestive problems. EPA's regulatory standard for monochloramine is based primarily on risk assessments focused on drinking water. EPA's standard for monochloramine is set at alevel where no digestive problems are expected to occur. EPA's regulatory standard for monochtoramine provides a wide margin of safety to offset uncertainties In risk asiessrnents. An important charactetWic of monoch/oramineIs any amount ingested quickly leaves the body. Monochloramineis broken down by saliva. Monochloramine is neutralized by stomach acid. Monochtoramlne leaves the body through human waste, People who believe their digestive problems are related to monochloramine should consult with their doctors. The causes of digestive problems are often difficult to determine. People who have digestive problems should informtheir doctors about what they have drunk or eaten and about any unusual exposures to chemicals. COC's investigation' of reports of monochloramine-relateddigestive problems associated with drinking water use was unable to draw any conclusions about monochtofamine and health effects. Additional Supporting Information: 1. CDC and EPA conducted a preliminary investigation of reports of monochioramlne-related digestive problems associated with drinking water. The Investigationconsisted of a questionnaire filled out by complaintants. The information collected can be used to help design future e~idamiol& studies. CDC's trio nsoort can be found at: Deliberative draft - do not cite or distribute Water utilities typically monitor for problems caused by changes in water - - ..-.-- . . . from monochloramine usa. The presence of natural organic matter' in water may change the water Water utilities monitor for changes in water aualik at-~cbe jreelmept fa@l&iesL -. s the water moves -- ~eleted;chunfalry Water utilities typically monitor for changes in water through pipes. an-:--- - i q Water utilities may need to adjust their treatment processes for probiems caused by changes in waterWrn.m#nochioramineu e ? . - - . - - . -. . <6 Water utilities may need to adjust their treatment processes to reduce levels of lead or other regulated contaminants to meet EPA regulations. Deliberative draft - do not cite or distribute ~ e l a t e d : ~ h s m w -,.. . $3 . 4. EPA guidance to utilities on addressing corrosion issues is available at: Deliberative draft - do not rite or distribute 28)Can my doctor tell if my health problems are caused by monmhlorami~eor any disinfectant in drinking water? A ductor would have difficultymaking a direct link befween a health problem and momchiomnine or any disinfectant in drinking water. People are exposed to many chemi$als and other irritants in their daily lives and their sensNvity to these agents vary. EPA1sdrinking water regulations limit the use of chloramines to levels where no adverse health effectsare anticipated. EPA's regulatov standard for chloramines in drinkhg water provides a wide margin of safety to offset uncertainties in risk assessments. EPA beIieves drinking water disinfected with monoch/oraminethat meets rwguli~tmystandards poses no -knownor antidpat& adverse health probiems. tsolated cases of health problems thought to be related to drinking water have been reported and were investigated by CDC, 4 Ti'ichloramine+a chemical ihai may be formed in swimming pools2, has been linked to skin irritation and breathing problems. CDC's investigation1of reports of tnonochloramine-related breathhg problems related to drinking water was unable to draw any conclusions about mmochlomine and health effects. ' Conhct your doctor if you think you have a health problem related to drinking water use. It is impoflant for your doctor to know where and how you believe you were exposed to chlo~mines(e.g., via drinking water or a swimming pool)? Health problems are typically highly diverse in ohgin, making it difficult for doctors to specify exad causes. Your doctor should discuss health problems hehhe believes may be related to chlmmines In drinking water with the local health depattmeni. Addithnal Suppotting Information: I . CDC and EPA ~onduf3eda preliminary lnvestlgaiion of reports of moncchloramine-related health problems assodated with ddriMg water. The iwestigation consisted of a quesiionnaire filled out by canplaintants, Tbe information collected can be used to help design fmre qId%m[ologl~ studies. CDCs trip report can be found 8: ,. .m h ~ l h ~ ~ m o ~ . a w / a n v i ~ r m l .~o m utn esnmwt t ~ 0I 1608mdf. 2. Improper p a l rnahtmmcecart d e n lead to trichlmmine formation: Some examples Include: w . ~ & . a o v / n k ~ ~ d ~ ~ ~ 7 4 1 6 3 - 3and 0 6 2 . ~ # & . -&. 3. See qu6Mon 1 for a discussion of the different types ol chloramin~s. DeIibemtive draft - do not cite or distribute 29) How can I remove monochlmmine from my drinking water? € b d that drinkhg ~ ~ water disinfected WMImonmhhamine that mwts mguiatoty standads ia ~ i tobuse and it does not n& to k movedL a EPA ddnkhg water regulaibns Ihit mnochloramine use to levels wbere no adverse health effects are anticipated. Water utilities must test drinking water regularly to make sure it is within EPA regulatory limits. EPA's regulatory standard for rnonochloramine in ddnking water provides a wide margin of safely to offset uncertainties in risk assessments. Monochlmmine can be mom difficult to mmwe from dthking water than f chbrlm. a Boiling water does not remove rnonochloratnhe from drinking water. Letting water sit a! room temperature does not remove mono~hloraminefrom drinking water. Reverse osmosls filters2 wlll not remove rnonochlorarnhw from drinkhg water. Cummerdai products am amMble that indicata they m o w momchhramine from drhkhg water. Commerchi products that remove monochloramine from drinking water often contain certifications describing their effectiveness? rn Some home treatment systems and water filters2 will remove monoch~oramine, EPA does not teat or ceflify home treatment systems or filters2thal remove monochhmmhe from drinking water. ' Additional Stipporthg infomation: 1. See que&n 14 for Infomation on how EPA evaluated safety of monwhtommine use as a drinking.water dlshfectant. 2. More infomation on cdfied devices for removing monochloramine is avaiIaHe at www.nsf.0~and M . ~ . o Q . To be certifii, devices must dmonstrata at least an MOA chlommines reduclion over the entire service cyzk of the filter. Seo question 22 for information mgarding remwing monmhlomtnine for aquahum use. h l i M v e draft - do not cite or distribute