Vinyl Chloride
volatile organic compound
Leaching from PVC pipes; discharge from plastics factories.
EPA regulatory status
Legal limit (MCL)
0.002 mg/L
Goal (MCLG)
0 mg/L
MCL 0.002 mg/L (2 ppb). MCLG = 0.
Health effects
A known human carcinogen. Long-term exposure increases the risk of cancer.
This is general public-health information, not medical advice — consult your physician with any health concerns.
National violations
39,905
EPA's enforcement data (SDWIS/ECHO) records 39,905 violations of Vinyl Chloride's rule nationally.
How to remove Vinyl Chloride
Frequently asked questions
What is Vinyl Chloride?
Vinyl Chloride is a volatile organic compound regulated in US drinking water. Leaching from PVC pipes; discharge from plastics factories.
What is the legal limit for Vinyl Chloride in drinking water?
MCL 0.002 mg/L (2 ppb). MCLG = 0.
What health effects does Vinyl Chloride have?
A known human carcinogen. Long-term exposure increases the risk of cancer.
How many violations of Vinyl Chloride limits are on record nationally?
EPA's enforcement data (SDWIS/ECHO) records 39,905 violations of Vinyl Chloride's rule nationally.
How do I remove Vinyl Chloride from my water?
Filter technologies certified to reduce Vinyl Chloride include: activated carbon (NSF/ANSI 53), reverse osmosis (NSF/ANSI 58). 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