What group of contaminants does the Safe Drinking Water Act cover regarding public health?

The Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) is a key piece of legislation in the United States that aims to protect public health by regulating the nation's public drinking water supply. It establishes standards for various contaminants that can adversely affect human health if present in drinking water.

The Act covers a broad range of contaminants, which includes microorganisms, disinfectants, inorganic chemicals, organic chemicals, and radionuclides. Each of these groups poses different potential health risks, and the SDWA sets limits on the concentration of these substances to ensure that drinking water is safe.

Microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, and protozoa can lead to diseases, and the Act sets standards to monitor and control their presence in water. Disinfectants, which are commonly used to treat water, must also be regulated to avoid harmful byproducts that can form during the disinfection process.

Inorganic chemicals, such as heavy metals and salts, and organic chemicals, which include various man-made and natural substances, are also regulated under this Act. Additionally, radionuclides—which are radioactive isotopes—are monitored to protect against the risks associated with exposure to radiation.

The comprehensive nature of the SDWA demonstrates its commitment to safeguarding all aspects of drinking water quality, ensuring that all relevant contaminants