Beryllium
metal
Discharge from metal refineries and coal-burning factories; discharge from electrical, aerospace, and defense industries.
EPA regulatory status
Legal limit (MCL)
0.004 mg/L
Goal (MCLG)
0.004 mg/L
MCL 0.004 mg/L (4 ppb). MCLG = 0.004 mg/L.
Health effects
Long-term exposure is associated with intestinal lesions.
This is general public-health information, not medical advice — consult your physician with any health concerns.
National violations
19,408
EPA's enforcement data (SDWIS/ECHO) records 19,408 violations of Beryllium's rule nationally.
How to remove Beryllium
distillation
NSF/ANSI 62
Frequently asked questions
What is Beryllium?
Beryllium is a metal regulated in US drinking water. Discharge from metal refineries and coal-burning factories; discharge from electrical, aerospace, and defense industries.
What is the legal limit for Beryllium in drinking water?
MCL 0.004 mg/L (4 ppb). MCLG = 0.004 mg/L.
What health effects does Beryllium have?
Long-term exposure is associated with intestinal lesions.
How many violations of Beryllium limits are on record nationally?
EPA's enforcement data (SDWIS/ECHO) records 19,408 violations of Beryllium's rule nationally.
How do I remove Beryllium from my water?
Filter technologies certified to reduce Beryllium include: reverse osmosis (NSF/ANSI 58), distillation (NSF/ANSI 62). 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