What is the secondary maximum containment level for copper?

The secondary maximum containment level (SMCL) for copper is set at 1.0 mg/L. This level is established to protect public welfare and maintain aesthetic quality, particularly taste and color in drinking water. While copper is an essential trace element vital for human health, excessive exposure can lead to negative health effects such as gastrointestinal distress, and it can also impart an undesirable metallic taste to water, influencing consumer acceptability. Regulatory bodies emphasize the importance of managing copper levels to ensure both safety and quality in the drinking water distribution systems.