What Is Arsenic in Water and How to Remove It?

Water quality is a critical concern for households across the UK, especially when it comes to harmful contaminants like arsenic. Many people may not be aware that arsenic can leach into drinking water, posing serious health risks. In this guide, we will explore what arsenic is, how it gets into water supplies, and most importantly, how you can remove it to ensure the water you drink is safe and clean.

Arsenic is a naturally occurring element found in the Earth’s crust. While it has many industrial uses, it is also commonly found in groundwater due to natural processes like weathering and erosion of rocks. Arsenic can also be released into the environment through industrial activities such as mining, the use of pesticides, and the burning of fossil fuels.

While arsenic is commonly associated with soil and air pollution, it is the presence of arsenic in drinking water that poses the most significant health risk. When water sources are contaminated with high levels of arsenic, it can have severe consequences for both short-term and long-term health.

Arsenic exists in two main forms in water:inorganicandorganic.Inorganic arsenic is the more dangerous form, typically found in water and soil. Organic arsenic, on the other hand, is generally less toxic and is found in food sources like seafood. For the purposes of this guide, we will focus oninorganic arsenicin water, as it is the type of arsenic that presents the most significant health risks.

In the UK, arsenic contamination of drinking water is primarily a concern in areas where natural groundwater contains elevated levels of the element. The presence of arsenic in drinking water is more common in certain geographical regions, particularly in parts ofScotland,Northern Ireland, andWales.

Arsenic can be naturally present in groundwater, especially in areas with arsenic-rich geological formations. Over time, as rocks containing arsenic break down, the element leaches into underground water sources. This is why certain wells or boreholes may have higher concentrations of arsenic.

While natural sources are a significant contributor to arsenic levels in water, human activities also play a role. Industries such asmining,wood preservation, and theuse of pesticidescan introduce arsenic into the environment, eventually contaminating water supplies.In the UK,strict regulations have helped reduce industrial arsenic pollution in recent years, but historical contamination may still pose risks.

In some cases, arsenic contamination in public water systems may be due to inadequate treatment. Although water treatment plants in the UK are generally effective at removing common contaminants like chlorine, sediment, and bacteria, arsenic requires specialised treatment processes. In regions with naturally high arsenic levels, water treatment systems may struggle to reduce the concentration to safe levels.

Consuming water with high levels of arsenic can lead to a variety of health issues. Arsenic is aknown carcinogen, meaning that long-term exposure to high levels of arsenic can increase the risk of cancer, particularly in the bladder, lungs, and skin. However, the dangers of arsenic are not limited to cancer risks. Short-term exposure can also cause:

• Skin lesions
• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhoea
• Abdominal pain
• Reduced immunity

Long-term exposure to arsenic can lead to more severe health effects, including heart disease, neurological damage, and diabetes. This is why it is crucial to address arsenic contamination in drinking water as soon as it is detected.

The UK Drinking Water Inspectorate (DWI) sets strict limits for the amount of arsenic allowed in drinking water. According to the current regulations, the maximum concentration of arsenic in public drinking water is limited to10 micrograms per litre (µg/L). This limit is aligned with the guidelines established by theWorld Health Organization (WHO).

In private water supplies, such as those from boreholes or private wells, it is the responsibility of the homeowner to ensure water quality. If you are using a private water source, regular testing for arsenic and other contaminants is recommended.

If you live in an area where arsenic contamination is a concern, it is crucial to test your water regularly. There are various testing methods available, from DIY test kits to professional laboratory testing services.

DIY test kits are available online and in hardware stores, and they provide a convenient way to check for arsenic levels in your water. These kits typically come with instructions on how to collect a water sample and how to interpret the results. However, while these kits can give a general idea of arsenic levels, they may not always provide accurate measurements.

For more accurate results, you can send a water sample to a certified laboratory for analysis. Professional water testing services in the UK will provide a detailed report, including arsenic concentration levels and recommendations for treatment.

If your water tests positive for arsenic, there are several methods to remove it. The best solution for you will depend on the level of contamination, the type of water supply, and your budget. Below are some of the most common methods for removing arsenic from water.

Reverse osmosis (RO)is one of the most effective methods for removing arsenic from drinking water. An Reverse Osmosis system uses a semi-permeable membrane to filter out contaminants, including arsenic. This method is particularly effective for removing inorganic arsenic, which is the most harmful form.

Distillationinvolves heating water to create steam, which is then condensed back into liquid form. As the water evaporates, arsenic and other contaminants are left behind. This method is effective in reducing arsenic levels in drinking water.But it requires energy to operateand slow process, so it may not be suitable for large households.

Iron oxide adsorption is a filtration method that uses iron oxide-coated filters to remove arsenic. The arsenic binds to the iron oxide, removing it from the water supply.But it may not work as well for very low arsenic concentrationsand can be slower than other methods.

Arsenic contamination in drinking water is a serious concern, but it can be managed with the right knowledge and tools. By regularly testing your water and installing a suitable water filtration system , you can ensure that the water you drink is safe and healthy. For UK residents, it is important to stay aware of arsenic levels in your local water supply, especially if you rely on private wells or groundwater.

By investing in the right water treatment system, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing that your drinking water is free from harmful contaminants like arsenic.