What are chemical contaminants?

Chemical contaminants are harmful substances that can be found in drinking water and pose a risk to human health. These contaminants can include a wide variety of chemicals, such as heavy metals (like lead or mercury), pesticides, and industrial chemicals. Their presence in water can lead to serious health issues, including poisoning, long-term chronic diseases, and developmental problems in children.

Understanding the nature of chemical contaminants is crucial for the protection of public health and for ensuring safe drinking water. This makes the identification and monitoring of these substances a key responsibility for environmental health specialists.