1,2 Dichloroethane
Synthetic volatile organic compound (VOC). It is primarily used in vinyl chloride production, a material used in PVC pipes, upholstery, and housewares; it is also used as a solvent and a gasoline additive. It evaporates easily from surface water, so it is more often found in groundwater sources. 1,2 Dichloroethane is readily volatile, thus all routes of exposure (ingestion, inhalation and dermal) are relevant if one is exposed via drinking water. Health effects associated with 1,2 dichloroethane in drinking water include liver and kidney toxicity and an increased risk of cancer.
Health Guideline Level (HGL)
0 ppb
Maximum level that poses minimal health risk based on the latest science
Health Effects
Drinking water standards for 1,2 dichloroethane are based on increased cancer risk observed in animal studies. EPA classifies 1,2 dichloroethane as a probable human carcinogen. Additional health protective benchmarks have been developed based on liver toxicity observed in animal studies. Elevated levels of 1,2 dichloroethane have also been associated with kidney toxicity based on evidence from animal studies. 1,2 Dichloroethane has been shown to produce DNA changes (genotoxicity) in laboratory studies.
Affected Organs & Systems:
Common Sources
- Not naturally occurring. It enters the environment and drinking water sources via urban runoff, the release of industrial effluent, and waste disposal
How to Remove It
Water filters certified under the following NSF standards are effective at removing 1,2 Dichloroethane:
Health Guideline Level
The HGL represents the maximum level that poses minimal health risk based on the latest scientific research. It's often more protective than federal legal limits.
Contaminant Type
1,2 Dichloroethane is classified as a VOCs contaminant.
This contaminant primarily affects the kidneys, carcinogens, and other systems.
Check Your Water
Find out if 1,2 Dichloroethane is in your tap water.
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