VOC Water Test (volitile organic chemicals) CT: What are VOC’s (volitile organic chemicals) and how do they contaminate CT drinking water?
VOC’s are a group of commonly used chemicals that evaporate, or volatilize, when exposed to air. Since they dissolve many other substances, VOC’s are widely used as cleaning and liquefying agents in fuels, degreasers, solvents, polishes, cosmetics, drugs, and dry cleaning solutions.
VOC’s are found at airports and service stations machine shops, print and paint shops, electronics and chemical plants, dry cleaning facilities, and in household products. Some common VOC’s are trichloroethylene (TCE),tetrachloroethylene, trichloroethane, benzene, toluene, and xylenes.
When VOC’s are spilled or dumped, a portion will evaporate, but some usually soaks into the ground. In soil, the VOC’s can be carried deeper with rainwater or melting snow. If they reach the water table, they can persist for years because the cool, dark, low-bacteria environment does not promote decomposition. If the VOC’s in the groundwater migrate to nearby wells, they can end up in your drinking water.
Several factors increase a well’s vulnerability to VOC contamination.
One – The distance between the well and the source or sources of contamination, many of the VOC contaminated wells are located near industrial or commercial areas, gas stations, landfills, or railroad tracks.
Two – The depth of the well casing, since contaminants seep from the ground surface, a shallow well will be affected sooner than a deep well.
Three – The local geology, areas with highly porous or “thin” soils and shallow depths to groundwater are most vulnerable. On the other hand, areas with thick layers of certain types of soil can absorb and significantly slow down the movement of some contaminants. This is particularly important because many organic chemicals can be broken down by soil bacteria if they are held near the ground surface long enough for the bacteria to work.
Exposure to VOCs can result in many adverse health effects depending on the type, level and length of exposure. Health problems can range from minor ailments to major, long-term health complications including:
- Eye, nose and throat irritation
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Nausea and vomiting
- Asthma exacerbation
- Fatique
- Allergic skin reaction
- Memory impairment and loss of coordination
- Cancer
- Liver damage
- Kidney damage
- Central Nervous System damage
Keep your family safe. Schedule an appointment to have a CT water test specialist test your well today 888-558-1574.
