Which agency monitors the maximum contamination level of drinking water?

The agency that monitors the maximum contamination level of drinking water is the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This responsibility is part of the EPA's broader mandate to protect human health and the environment. The Safe Drinking Water Act, enacted in 1974, authorizes the EPA to set health standards for drinking water to ensure its safety. This includes establishing Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs) for various harmful substances that can be present in drinking water, such as bacteria, chemicals, and heavy metals, ensuring they are kept below levels considered harmful to human health.

In contrast, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) primarily focuses on regulating food safety, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics, rather than drinking water. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides guidance and research on public health issues, including waterborne diseases, but does not enforce drinking water standards. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) concerns itself with workplace safety and health regulations and does not govern drinking water quality. Therefore, the correct agency for monitoring maximum contamination levels in drinking water is indeed the EPA.