VOLATILE ORGANIC CHEMICALS (VOCS)

These are chemicals of an organic nature (containing hydrogen, oxygen, and carbon) which readily volatilize, or travel from the water into the air. Most such substances are industrial chemicals and solvents. They include light alcohols, acetone, trichloroethylene, perchloroethylene, dichloroethylene, benzene, vinyl chloride, toluene, and methylene chloride. These potentially toxic chemicals are used as solvents, degreasers, paints, thinners, and fuels. Because of their volatile nature, they readily evaporate into the air, increasing the potential exposure to humans. Due to their low water solubility, environmental persistence, and widespread industrial use, they are commonly found in soil and water. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) maintains a listing of VOCs that are regulated with respect to Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs) as part of the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA). Also referred to as Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs).