HALOPICRINS

        What are Halopicrins? Halopicrins are small organic compounds containing nitrogen, chlorine, and/or bromine. The compounds are formed from naturally occurring organic substances during chlorination of water supplies, particularly those which are nitrite-rich. The halopicrin of most significance in disinfected water is chloropicrin.

        What are the Health Effects of Halopicrins? Chloropicrin can cause death at high doses. The compound is toxic through inhalation or ingestion in mammals. Inhalation results in injury to the lungs and nose. Further research is required to determine the carcinogenic potential of chloropicrin at low concentration exposure.

        How may I be Exposed to Halopicrins? Halopicrins are found in chlorinated drinking water supplies. The levels of halopicrins are dependant on the amount of naturally organic material found in the source water and the amount of chlorine used in disinfection. Ozonation prior to chlorination increases the levels of chlropicrin.

        Are the Levels of Halopicrins in Drinking Water Dangerous to my Health? The toxicity and carcinogenicity of halopicrins at levels found in disinfected water needs to researched further to determine a level that is safe for human consumption. No regulatory limits currently exist for halopicrins, however, measurements of the levels found in disinfected water have shown that they are usually less than 1 µg/L.




Source: http://www.ci.sf.ca.us/puc/wqfs/tocsec4.htm