Overview
Heptachlor is an insecticide used for termite control until 1988. It is linked to cancer, hormone disruption and neurotoxicity.
State, National, and Health Guidelines for Drinking Water
EWG Health Guideline: 0.008 ppb
The EWG Health Guideline of 0.008 ppb for heptachlor was defined by the California Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment as a public health goal, the level of a drinking water contaminant that does not pose a significant health risk. This health guideline protects against cancer.
EPA Maximum Contaminant
Level (MCL): 0.4 ppb
The legal limit for heptachlor, established in 1991, was based on analytical detection limits at the time that the standard was set. This limit may not fully protect against the risk of cancer due to heptachlor exposure.
ppb = parts per billion
National Standard Exists
Health Concerns:
Cancer
Hormone disruption
Harm to the brain and nervous system
