Heptachlor

GENERAL INFORMATION
Heptachlor is a white to tan waxy organic solid with a camphor-like odor. Heptachlor breaks down in the environment to form heptachlor epoxide. Most uses of heptachlor to kill termites in homes and insects on far crops was canceled in 1978. The only permitted use of heptachlor products is for fire ant control in buried pad-mounted electric power transformers, and in underground cable television and telephone cable boxes. Heptachlor was used to kill termites in the home, and insects found on farm crops. By 1988, the commercial sale of heptachlor was banned in the United States. Heptachlor may be released directly to the soil in connection with its use. It has also been found in treated wastewater from some types of industrial facilities.

HEALTH EFFECTS
Some people who drink water containing heptachlor well in excess of the maximum contaminant level (MCL) for many years could experience liver damage and may have an increased risk of getting cancer.

Standard value 1: 
0.40
Standard units 1: 
ppb
Input units: 
ug/L
ppb
Contaminant group: 
Pesticide
Standard type 1: 
MCL
Action is recommended 1: 

MCL ADVISORY - ACTION IS HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Heptachlor levels were detected in your water sample to exceed the maximum contaminant level (MCL).

Action is optional 1: 

ACTION IS OPTIONAL
Heptachlor levels were detected in your water sample but do not exceed the maximum contaminant level.

Typical range in Ohio: 
detection suggest human source
Major sources in drinking water: 
Residue of banned pesticide
Treatment options: 

TREATMENT OPTIONS
Granular Activated Carbon (GAC) or Powdered Activated Carbon (PAC) are considered the best available technologies (BAT) for treatment of many organic contaminants including organic pesticides, volatile organic compound (VOCs), and Trihalomethanes (THMs) (by-products of chlorination). Treatment can be at the tap (called point of use or POU) or the entire house.

Website resources: 

WEBSITE RESOURCES

Fact sheets: 

FACT SHEETS