Gross Alpha in Drinking Water
Reference information plus historical EPA compliance records associated with gross alpha.
EPA Limit (MCL)
15 pCi/L
EPA Goal (MCLG)
0 pCi/L
Category
Radionuclides
Regulatory values are a concise reference, not legal or medical advice. Confirm the current standard and rule-specific details on EPA.gov.
Health Effects
Increased cancer risk
Common Sources
Erosion of natural deposits
Treatment Considerations for Gross Alpha
Commonly cited treatment approaches include: Reverse osmosis, ion exchange. Choose treatment only after a certified water test identifies the substance and concentration; verify NSF/ANSI certification and consult a qualified local professional when needed.
20,057
Historical Violation Records
9,936
Systems With Records
Historical Gross Alpha Records by State
| State | Records | Systems |
|---|---|---|
| Pennsylvania | 2,479 | 1,064 |
| California | 1,940 | 1,017 |
| Illinois | 1,576 | 986 |
| Washington | 1,277 | 1,276 |
| North Carolina | 1,157 | 476 |
| Mississippi | 1,060 | 154 |
| Oregon | 1,052 | 674 |
| Texas | 1,033 | 102 |
| Utah | 738 | 262 |
| Missouri | 660 | 153 |
| Alaska | 622 | 289 |
| Connecticut | 622 | 243 |
| Arizona | 616 | 345 |
| Oklahoma | 568 | 168 |
| Colorado | 491 | 145 |
| Ohio | 456 | 325 |
| Indiana | 425 | 381 |
| South Dakota | 343 | 272 |
| West Virginia | 322 | 84 |
| Iowa | 307 | 222 |
Systems With the Most Gross Alpha Violation Records
MAY VALLEY WA
CITY OF BRADY WATER SYSTEM
ABRAXAS UTILITIES
WAUKESHA WATER UTILITY
WEST JACKSON CO UTILITY DIST
COAL MOUNTAIN WATER
COUNCIL CREEK VILLAGE
HIAWATHA WATER
CIRCLE H MHP
VALLEY ESTATES
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Gross Alpha and why can it appear in drinking-water records?
Gross Alpha can be associated with drinking water through: Erosion of natural deposits.
What reference value does this page show?
The summarized EPA Maximum Contaminant Level is 15 pCi/L. Some substances use action levels or rule-specific thresholds instead, so verify the current EPA standard.
Does a historical violation record mean it is in my tap today?
No. A compliance record may be historical or resolved. Use the latest Consumer Confidence Report or a certified test for current local conditions.