What is the MCL for chlorine dioxide (ClO2) in drinking water?

The Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) for chlorine dioxide in drinking water is indeed 0.8 mg/L. The MCL is a regulatory standard established by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) aimed at ensuring the safety of potable water. Chlorine dioxide is a chemical used as a disinfectant in water treatment processes, effective at eliminating bacteria and other pathogens.

Setting the MCL at 0.8 mg/L is based on balancing the effectiveness of chlorine dioxide as a disinfectant with the potential health risks posed by excessive exposure. This established level helps to protect public health by minimizing the risk of adverse health effects while allowing sufficient disinfection capabilities within water treatment systems.

It's important for water treatment operators to adhere to this standard to ensure that drinking water remains safe for consumption while effectively managing the microbial load in the water supply.