Toluene

GENERAL INFORMATION
Toluene is an organic liquid with a sweet, benzene-like odor. The largest chemical use for toluene is to make benzene and urethane. The major source of toluene in drinking water is discharge from petroleum factories.

HEALTH EFFECTS
Some people who drink water containing toluene well in excess of the maximum contaminant level (MCL) for many years could experience problems with their nervous system, kidneys or liver.

Standard value 1: 
1 000.00
Standard units 1: 
ppb
Input units: 
ug/L
ppb
Contaminant group: 
Standard type 1: 
MCL
Action is optional 1: 

ACTION IS OPTIONAL
Toluene 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: 
Discharge from petroleum factories
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

  • ODH Health Assessment Fact Sheet - BTEX
  • ATSDR ToxFAQs Fact Sheet - Toluene