Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
The maximum contaminant level (MCL) is the highest allowable concentration of a particular contaminant in drinking water as set by regulatory agencies. It represents the legal limit for a specific pollutant to protect public health.
Related terms
Primary Drinking Water Standard: Primary drinking water standards are legally enforceable standards established by regulatory agencies, including MCLs, which aim to protect public health from contaminants in drinking water.
Secondary Drinking Water Standard: Secondary drinking water standards are non-enforceable guidelines set by regulatory agencies that address aesthetic qualities of drinking water, such as taste and odor.
Treatment Techniques: Treatment techniques refer to specific methods used to remove or reduce contaminants in order to meet the MCLs and ensure safe drinking water. These techniques may include filtration, disinfection, or chemical treatment processes.