Barium
metal
Discharge from drilling wastes and metal refineries; erosion of natural deposits.
EPA regulatory status
Legal limit (MCL)
2 mg/L
Goal (MCLG)
2 mg/L
MCL 2 mg/L. MCLG = 2 mg/L.
Health effects
Long-term exposure to elevated barium is associated with increases in blood pressure.
This is general public-health information, not medical advice — consult your physician with any health concerns.
National violations
37,117
EPA's enforcement data (SDWIS/ECHO) records 37,117 violations of Barium's rule nationally.
How to remove Barium
cation exchange
NSF/ANSI 44
Frequently asked questions
What is Barium?
Barium is a metal regulated in US drinking water. Discharge from drilling wastes and metal refineries; erosion of natural deposits.
What is the legal limit for Barium in drinking water?
MCL 2 mg/L. MCLG = 2 mg/L.
What health effects does Barium have?
Long-term exposure to elevated barium is associated with increases in blood pressure.
How many violations of Barium limits are on record nationally?
EPA's enforcement data (SDWIS/ECHO) records 37,117 violations of Barium's rule nationally.
How do I remove Barium from my water?
Filter technologies certified to reduce Barium include: reverse osmosis (NSF/ANSI 58), cation exchange (NSF/ANSI 44). Look for a filter independently certified against the specific NSF/ANSI standard for this contaminant — general "reduces contaminants" marketing claims are not the same as a contaminant-specific certification.
Source: EPA National Primary Drinking Water Regulations · Data as of 2026-07-16