Westwood MA
11-05-2021 12:36pm

Dedham-Westwood Water District Reports Elevated TTHM in Water

Photo by Steve Johnson from Pexels

On November 4, 2021, Dedham-Westwood Water District  reported a Tier 2 violation of levels of trihalomethanes (TTHMs), recorded for the period of January 1, 2021 through October 7, 2021.  

The Water District's notice on its website states, "Although the elevated levels of TTHMs are of concern, this is not an emergency, and an alternative source of water is not necessary. If it had been, you would have been notified immediately. As our customers, you have a right to know what happened and what we are doing to correct this situation."

The Water District assures drinking water customers that no action is needed, and that residents will be made aware of unsafe water conditions within 24 hours. However, it also advises that people with severely compromised immune systems, the elderly and those who are pregnant or who have an infant should contact their health provider before drinking the water.

Although the Water District notes that measurements for TTHM are taken as an average, over a 12 month period, it reports an MCL exceedance of TTHM based upon a 9 month period. The maximum contaminant level (MCL) allowable in drinking water is 80 parts per billion (80 ppb).  The MCL that was measured this year from the beginning of January to the beginning of October was 83 ppb.

TTHMs refer to the combined concentration of a group of disinfection byproducts that occur when chlorine that is used to disinfect water reacts with other naturally occurring chemicals in the water. People can become exposed to TTHMs not only through ingestion but by inhaling vapors and through the skin, such as when showering.

Exposure to TTHMs over the long-term may increase risks of certain types of cancer.  The duration of exposure appears to be a factor to risk.

The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection has provided comments on the risks of TTHM exposure, stating, "The degree of risk for these effects will depend on the TTHM level and the duration of exposure. Consumption of water with TTHM levels somewhat above the MCL for limited durations, for example, while corrective actions are being taken to lower the levels, is not likely to significantly increase risks of adverse health effects for most people."

While the Water District notes that there is no emergency and no corrective action need be taken (but vulnerable groups mentioned above should check with a doctor), MA DEP provides steps consumers can take if they desire to limit TTHM exposure. They are:

  • Ventilate the bathroom when bathing or showering;
  • Operate room exhaust fans or ventilate room (open window) when boiling water, washing with hot water or running the dishwasher;
  • Reduce the length of showers and baths;
  • Reduce the temperature on hot water heaters; and
  • Limit time spent in or around chlorinated pools or hot tubs.

On November 4, 2021, the Town of Westwood posted the notice from the Water District to customers, along with Frequently Asked Questions, available here.

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