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The Most Common MCL Violations

MCL, also known as "maximum contaminant level," is a standard in many states for the maximum allowable amount of coliform in drinking water. Some states include other contaminants in its MCL measurements. Coliform includes E. coli, fecal coliform and total coliform bacteria. All states require that public water be tested for coliform in order to prevent illness by those who ingest the water. The testing is measured in MCLs, and a violation is referred to as an "MCL violation." There are several MCL violations which are frequently charged against public water suppliers.

  1. Acute MCL Violations for Coliform

    • One common kind of an MCL violation is an acute MCL violation. Typically, an acute MCL violation occurs when raw sewage enters into the water supply. This causes contamination by E. coli or fecal matter. Since an individual drinking the water could become severely sick or die from ingesting the water, this MCL violation is considered the most serious of all MCL violations.

    Non-Acute MCL Violations for Coliform

    • A non-acute MCL violation is another common charge assessed against public water suppliers. This type of violation arises when total coliform bacteria exists in a tested water sample. Usually, the bacteria is from typical garden-derived material, such as dirt or plant matter.

    Arsenic, Lead and Nitrate MCL Violations

    • Some states include arsenic, lead and nitrates in their MCL measurements when performing MCL testing of public water. These contaminants, in certain levels, can also lead to illness and health problems.

    Repeat MCL Violations

    • Repeat MCL violations are another category of violations. Repeat MCL violations exist in two different scenarios, depending upon the jurisdiction: either multiple water tests continue to demonstrate contamination, or the water supplier fails to test its water supply and provide test results following an MCL violation.

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